
Qass 
Book 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT 




\ 



7\ I m 



CONTENTS. 

|See Alphabetical Index at the endx»f the Hand-book.] 



Page. 

Preface v 

General Information vii 

Hotels, vii — Lodgings, vii— Boarding, viii — Restaurants, viii — 
Railroads, viii — Steamers, ix— Street Cars, ix — Vehicles for 
hire, xii — City Post Office, xii— Mails, xii — Rates of Postage, 
xiii — Telegraph Offices, xiii — Churches, xiii — Theatres, xiv — 
General Amusements, xiv— Etiquette, Ceremonies, and For- 
malities, xiv — Distances from Washington, xix — Foreign Dis- 
tances, xix — Differences of Time, xx. 

Section I. 
Washington and the District of Columbia 1 

Washington, 1 — District of Columbia, 5. 

Section II. 
Description of the City 15 

Avenues, Squares, Statues, &c. 

Section III. 
Public Buildings and Grounds 55 

Historical Retrospect. 55 — Capitol, 56 — History of Congress, 
118— President's House, 121— Department of State, 128— Treas- 
ury Department, 131 — War Department, 136— Navy Depart- 
ment, 140— Department of the Interior, 142— Patent Office, 
145— General Post Office, 151— Department of Justice, 154 — 
Department of Agriculture, 156 — Naval Observatory, 163— 
Army Medical Musuem, 166 — Government Printing Office, 
168— Winder's Building, 170— City Hall, 171— Arsenal, 172— 
Navy- Yard, 174 — Marine Barracks, 176 — Magazines 177 

"Section IV. 
^aces of General Interest 178 

Smithsonian Institution, 178— Corcoran Gallery of Art, 180 — 
Washington National Monument, 192-Armory, 196-Churches, 
107 -Hails, 198— Newspaper Offices, 199— Public Schools, 201— 
Asylums, 202 — Cemeteries, 205— District Government, 207 — 
»Iar'.:et3, 209— Places of Historical Interest, 210. 

(Hi) 



IV CONTENTS. 

Section V. 
The Environs of Washington 211 

Section VI. 

History of Washington 234 

Index 244 



Abbreviations. 



Abbreviations. 

N., S., E., W., north, northern, northward, south, &c. 

east, &c., west., &c. ; m., mile ; sq. m., square mile ; lbs., 

pounds; r., right; 1., left; hr., hour; min., minute; yr . 
year ; a., acres ; av., avenue ; st., street ; yds., yards. 



PREFACE. 



The necessity of a reliable and complete Descriptive 
and Historical Hand-book to the Capital of the 
United States has long been felt. Warden's Geographical 
and Statistical Description of the District of Columbia, pub- 
lished in Paris in 1816, and the several editions of the Guides 
compiled by William Elliott, 1826 and 1830, and George Wat- 
terson, 1848, are really the only ones which possess the merit 
of original research. The productions of a similar character 
published since 1848, and especially the later ones, have been 
crude and imperfect, impositions in character and price, and 
noticeable only as containing the smallest amount of informa- 
tion for the largest amount of money. 

The compiler of the present work hopes to avoid these 
objections at least, and to give to the public a Hand-book 
of attractive and useful descriptive information about all 
places of interest in and around Washington, and at the 
same time to supply some appropriate historical data which 
may be valuable to carry away as a souvenir of a visit to the 
Seat of Government. 

In the preparation of the historical portions of the HAND- 
BOOK to Washington and its Environs, original author- 
ities only have been examined, including the manuscript rec- 
ords, correspondence, and proceedings of the Commissioners 
charged with the superintendence of the building of the city, 
1791-1800 ; the correspondence of George Washington, Thom- 
as Jefferson, and others on the same subject ; the Statutes at 
Large ; official documents, from the establishment of the per- 
manent Seat of Government down to the present time; besides 
the writings of travelers and public men and files of news- 
papers. 

Respecting the descriptive features, all points of interest 
in the city and surroundings, still in existence, have been 
personally visited and inspected. 

It is hoped, therefore, that the Hand-book will prove not 
only an invaluable companion on the spot, but an ever-wel- 
come and entertaining friend for future perusal and refer- 
ence at the home fireside. 

The compiler is under obligations to many of the officers 

(v) 



vi PREFACE. 

of the Government ; and while desiring to recognize their 
kindness, finds it difficult to make distinctions by individuals : 
he therefore thanks them all. 

The general information has been compiled with special 
reference to the necessities of the stranger in the city, and, 
in connection with other useful matter, will be found to con- 
tain trustworthy intelligence respecting railways, hotels, 
churches, theatres, &c. The code of Etiquette in Washing- 
ton and Street-car Directory will be found particularly con- 
venient and valuable. 

The remaining features of the Hand-book will appear as 
the reader familiarizes himself with its contents. 

In a city like the capital of such a constantly expanding 
Republic as the United States of America there are never- 
ending changes. To keep pace with these, it is the intention 
to annually revise and augment the Hand-book to Wash- 
ington and its Environs, so as to keep it at all times cor- 
rected to the latest period. 

The compiler does not presume that the Hand-book is 
faultless ; but to approximate such a degree of completeness, 
as far as practicable, will constantly be his endeavor. He 
will therefore be grateful for any errors or omissions pointed 
out or corrections suggested. These may be communicated 



by letter. 
Washington, D. C, 1879. 



DeB. R. K. 



PREFACE TO THE EDITION OF 1880. 

The success which has attended the earlier editions of 
this Handbook is accepted by the compiler as a sufficient 
guarantee of the public appreciation of its merit as the 
most complete and reliable work of the kind for reference 
and information ever published at the Capital. In view 
of this fact, the present edition has not only been thor- 
oughly revised, but the scope of information and number 
of illustrations materially enlarged. The illustrations are 
from wood by such eminent artists and engravers as Ross 
Turner, Schell, H. H. Nichols, and not by cheap, patent, 
mechanical processes, as in other works. K. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 




(HOSE who are influenced by a desire to visit the 
National Capital, when most attractive in point 
of beauty of nature and art, and without reference 
to the fashionable and congressional season, should 
arrive in May or June, or October or November. 
The hottest months are July and August. The 
winters, on the other hand, are generally mild and beautiful. 
The health of the city at all seasons is unexceptionable. For 
official and social seasons see Etiquette. 

Hotels, — The National Capital has a number of hotels., 
some of which will compare favorably with the best in the 
country. They are all located upon or conveniently acces- 
sible to the different lines of street cars connecting the Ex- 
ecutive Departments with the Capitol and western and east- 
ern portions of the city. The following are the principal 
hotels and charges per day: The Arlington, Vermont av., 

near H st. N., $3.50; Ebbitt, F St., corner of 14th st. W., $3.50; Wtllards' , 
Pennsylvania av., corner of 14th st. W., $4 ; Metropolitan, Pennsylvania av., 
between 6th and 7th sts. W., $3 ; Imperial, E st. N., between 13th and 14th 
sts. W.,$2.5o; National, Pennsylvania av.. corner of 6th st. W. $3 ; Rigg's, 
Fifteenth St., bet. F and G sts. NW.,ji4. The St. yames, corner Pennsylvania 
av. and 6th st. W., is on the European plan, rooms from $1 to $6. There are 
also other hotels on the American and European plans , suited to all classes, and 
at proportionate rates. 

Lodgings. — Persons desiring to pass some time in Wash- 
ington, and desirous of living retired, can find excellent lodg- 
ings in the vicinity of all the hotels, and in different parts of 
the city. The large transient population of the city has cre- 
ated an unusual demand for this style of accommodations, 
and every grade, from elegant suites down to unpretending 
single apartments, may be found. The rates for rooms 
would range from $25 for single rooms to $100 and upwards 
a month for suites. Persons remaining less than a month 
can also be supplied with quarters. 

Boarding,— Many houses in which lodgings can be secured 
also provide daily board, ranging from $25 to $35 a month for 
each person. The hotels also accommodate outside boarders 
at $45 a month for each person. 

(vii) 



▼HI GENERAL INFORMATION. 

Restaurants. — A number of excellent restaurants can be 
found in all the business portions of the city. Frequently 
persons find it more convenient to have lodgings and take 
their meals nearest where they may happen to be at the 
hour of dining. The charges at restaurants are about the 
same as at hotels or boarding-houses, according to grade. 
There are several excellent restaurants equal in appoint- 
ments to any in the large cities of the North. Cuisine 
excellent. 

Railroads. — (See Table of Distances.) — Persons departing 
from Washington have a choice of routes to all parts of the 
United States. 

Depots. — The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad for the North, East, and 
West, N. E. cor. New Jersey av. and C St., NW. 

Baltimore and Potomac Railroad for the North, South, East, and 
West, 6th st. immediately south of Pennsylvania av. 

Local trains, for Alexandria, leave the Baltimore and Potomac Depot at 
short intervals. 

The BranchTicket Offices of each road are convenient to the principal hotels. 

Sleeping Cars are attached to all through night trains. Tickets may be pro- 
cured at railroad ticket offices. 

Baggage will be called for and checked to all the principal cities of the United 
States, by leaving orders at the railroad ticket offices. 

Both depots may be reached by the Pennsylvania av., and F, and 9th st. 
lines of street railways. 

Steamers depart from Washington or Georgetown at 

stated times for Landings on the Potomac River and Chesapeake bay ; for 
Baltimore and Norfolk ; also for Philadelphia, New York and Boston. (See 
the daily prints.) The Wharves of all the Washington lines maybe reached 
by the Pennsylvania av. street cars exchanging at 7th street going south. 

Street Cars. — All parts of Washington may be reached 

Capitol, North O., and South Washington Railway or "Belt Line," 
incorporated 1875 cars every few minutes during the day, begins on Maryland 
av. and 3d, to 7th, through Virginia av. passing near the National Museum 
and the Smithsonian Institute ; through 12th st, passing the Dept. of Agricult- 
ure, to Ohio av., to 14 st W, to Pennsylvania av., through E st N. to 11 st W., 
thence, O st N (cars returning take P st instead of O st) to 4 st W,to G st N, 
into 1st st W, pasing near the Capitol and the Botanical Garden, to Maryland 
av., to the starting point, making the circuit of the best portions of North and 
and South Washington. Intersects all the principal street railway lines. 

Uniontown and 7th St. W. Railway, (Potomac and Anacostia) runs 
from 7th st W, through M st S, to 11 st E, passing the Navy Yard, thence 
across the Navy Yard Bridge to Uniontown. 

The tickets of one street railway are good on all other lines. Fare 5 cents 
six tickets for 25 cents. Exchanges given on branches of the same line. 

■Washington and Georgetown Street Railway, incorporated 1862, car& 
every few min. during the day, start on Bridge st., at High, Georgetown, cross 
Rock Creek over a fine iron bridge, follow Pennsylvania av., passing Mills' 
Statue of Washington, Corcoran Art Gallery, Lafayette Square, War Depart- 
ment, President's House, and Treasury. At 15th st. W. connect with the cars 
on the 14M Street and Columbia Railways. Exchange tickets given for the 
former. At the S. end of the Treasury they again enter Pennsylvania av., 
which they follow the entire length of the business quarter of the city, passing 
the Centre Market Botanical Garden and naval monument. At oth st. W. thev 



X GENERAL INFORMATION. 

intercept the Metropolitan line N. and S. ; and at 7th st. W. 
connect with the cars of the 7th st. branch N. and S. On 
the latter exchange tickets are given. At the W. gate of the 
Capitol grounds one branch turns to the 1. for the Baltimore 
and Ohio Railroad Depot every 10 min. during the day, and 
the other to the r. for the Capitol or Navy Yard, every 5 min. 
during the day. At the top of the hill a branch carries pas- 
sengers to the E. front of the House, or S. extension of the 
Capitol. The main line continues along B st. S. to Pennsyl- 
vania av., and thence to 8th st. E., thence passing the Marine 
Barracks to the Navy Yard . 

Fourteenth-Street Branch, cars every 10 min. dur- 
ing the day, start on New York av. at 15th st. W., NE. of 
the Treasury Department, thence to 14th st., thence N. to 
boundary, passing the Fourteenth-Street Circle 
Department. Exchange tickets are given on the Pennsyl- 
vania av. line. 

Seventh-Street Branch, cars every 4 and 5 min. dur- 
ing the day, start at the boundary, follow the same street 
across the city to the Potomac river, passing the N. Market, 
Mount Vernon Place, Patent and Post Offices, *and Odd- 
Fellows' Hall. At Massachusetts av. they intersect the Co- 
lumbia Railway, and at F st. N. the Metropolitan line. On 
Pennsylvania av. they connect with the main line. Ex- 
change tickets given E. or W. The cars now pass the Cen- 
tre Market, cross the Mall, with the Smithsonion grounds on 
r., continuing to the wharves for the Alexandria, Mount 
Vernon, and other steamers. 

Metropolitan Railway, incorporated 1864, cars every 
4 min. during the daj% start on 17th st., W. of the Navy 
and New State Departments, follow 17th st. W., passing the 
State, War, and Navy Departments, and Corcoran Art Gal- 
lery to H st. ; here the Georgetown branch leaves ; thence 
passing Lafayette Square to 14th st. ; thence to F st., inter- 
secting the 14th st. and Columbia Railways at New York 
av. ; connecting with the cars on the 9th st. branch N. and 
S., on which exchange tickets are given, passing the Patent 
and Post Offices, and intersecting the 7th st. line; thence to 
5th st. ; thence to Louisiana av., passing Judiciary Square ; 
thence to Indiana av., passing the City Hall; thence to C 
St., passing the Baltimore and Ohio depot to Delaware av. ; 
thence to B st. N., where the E. Capitol branch leaves; 
thence to the Senate extension. 

Georgetown and East Capitol Street Branch, cars 
every 6 min. during the day. Same as the main line going 
W. Cars leave that at II and 17th sts. N W. ; thence to Con- 
necticut av. ; thence to P st. at the Circle, intersecting the 



GENERAL INFORMATION. XI 

Connecticut av. and Park Railway ; thence along P st., cross- 
ing Kock Creek over a fine bridge, entering West st., George- 
town ; thence to High ; thence to Fayette, where it passes the 
Convent of the Visitation ; thence to 2d ; thence to High ; 
thence to Dumbarton ; thence to Montgomery ; thence to 
West, where the return track follows the outward, back to 
Washington. The East Capitol extension continues on B st. 
1ST. to 1st E. ; thence to East Capitol st., and thence to Lin- 
coln Square, the present terminus. It will be extended E. 
on the same street to the Anacostia. 

Ninth Street Branch, cars every 7 and 8 min. during 
the day, start at Boundary ; thence, passing Mount Vernon 
Place, the Patent Office and Masonic and Lincoln Halls, toB 
st. At New York av. they intersect the Columbia Railway. 
At F st. exchange tickets are given E. and W. OnB st. the 
cars pass the Centre Market, and intersect the 7th st. line. 
On 6th st. they pass the Baltimore and Potomac Depot to Mis- 
souri av. ; thence to 4£ st. ; thence to the Arsenal gate. 

Silver Springs Branch, of Metropolitan road starts at 
the N. terminus of the 7th st. line, and follows the 7th st. 
road a distance of 1£ m , passing the Scheutzen Park and 
Howard University, and terminates at present at the road to 
the Soldiers' Home and Rock Creek Church. 

Columbia Railway, incorporated 1870, cars every 10 
min. during the day, start on New York av. at loth st. W., 
NE. of the Treasury ; thence to H st. At 14th st. they cross 
the Metropolitan and 14th st. lines ; at 9th st. W. the Metro- 
politan, passing Mount Vernon Place, to Massachusetts av. 
At 7th st. they cross that line ; thence to H st. N. ; thence to 
the boundary, passing the Government Printing Office. At 
the terminus the Baltimore turnpike and Benning's Bridge 
road commence. 

Connecticut Avenue and Park Railway, incorpo- 
rated 1868. The Connecticut av. portion is used by the Me- 
tropolitan line to Georgetown. A car connects at the P st. 
Circle, and runs to boundary. 



Further extensions of existing lines, and the construction 
of new ones, are proposed, in some instances the roadway 
having already been laid. 



Zli GENERAL INFORMATION. 

Vehicles for hire. — Rates of fare established by law for 
hacks, cabs, or other vehicle for hire in the District of Co- 
lumbia. 

Bet. 5 a. m. and Bet. 12.30a. m. 
12.30 a. m. and 5 a. m. 

For one or two passengers in a one- f Per h'r, 75 cts. Per hour,$l 12. 
horse vehicle. 1 Pertrip,75 cts. Per trip, $1 12. 

For one or two passengers, four- ( Per hour, $1 50. Per hour, $2 25. 
seated vehicle drawn by two < Per trip, ex- Per trip, exceed* 
horses, within the city. (. ceed'glm.,$l. 1 m., $1 50. 

And for each additional passenger, 50 cts. 
One mile or less, one half these rates. 
For one or two passengers, four- p h $1 50 Per h $2 25# 
seated vehicle^ drawn by two Per trip, exceed- Per trip, exceed- 
horses, from Washington to or x | 2 w , 1 £ # ^ 

from Georgetown. ' v e ' ^ 

And for each additional passenger, 50 cts. 

One mile or less, one half these rates. 

One-horse vehicle does not include buggies and phaetons. 

In all cases where a vehicle is not engaged by the hour, it 
will be considered as being engaged by the trip. 

Special rates are charged for excursions. 

If there should be an overcharge, drive to the nearest police 
station, where officers in charge will immediately decide the 
case. 

In every case require a ticket of the driver before starting. 

City Post Office. On Louisiana av. S. side, near 7th and Pennsylvania 
av. NW. Hours for the arrival and departure of the mails bulletined at the 
office. 

The Money Order Office is in the second story of the rune building. 
Open from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m. 

Telegraph Offices. Western Union, cor. 15th and F st. NV\ Atlantic & 
Pacific, on Pennsylvania av. near 14th St. W, N. side. 

Kates of Postage. — Domestic— Letters to any part of the 
United States, 3 cents for each \ ounce or fraction thereof. 
Letters within any city, 2 cents where free delivery ; other 
offices, 1 cent. Kegistered Letters, 8 cents registration fee, 
in addition to the regular postage. At least' one full rate 
must be paid on letters to secure their transmission. Printed 
books, package limited to 4 lbs., except books printed by or- 
der of Congress, 2 cents for each 2 ounces or fraction thereof. 
Newspapers and magazines 1 cent 2 ounces. All transient 
matter must be prepaid in full by stamps. 

Foreign. — The frequent changes in routes and rates rend- 
ers it advisable to omit a table of foreign postages All ne- 
cessary information should be obtained at the Post Office. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 



Xlll 



Churches.— The following list of places of religious worship 
is merely designed for the use of visitors in the city, and 
therefore embraces only the representative churches of each 
denomination. For convenience of reference, it is arranged 
alphabetically. The usual hour for service is 10.30 to 11 A. 
M. and 7 to 8 p. M., according to the season of the year. 



Baptist ; E street , E 
st N between 6 & 7 W . ; 
Calvary, cor H & 8 sts. 
N W. 

Catholic Roman ; 
St. Aloysius,cor I & N, 
Capitol sts ; St. Domi- 
nic, cor 6th & F sts 

5 W. ; St Matthew, cor 
H & 15 sts NW. 

CONGKEGA TIONAL; 

cor 10 & G sts N W. 

Episcopal Protest- 
ant; Ascension,cor 12th 
st and Massachusetts 
av. NW ; Epiphany, G. 
st between 13 & 14 
NW. St. John's, cor 16 

6 H sts N W. 
Episcopal Metho- S==! 

dist; Foundry ,corG & 
14 sts NW. Metropoli- 
tan,cor4^&CstsNW. 

Episcopal Metho- 
dist (bouth); Mt. Ver- 
non, cor 9 & K sts NW 

Gekman Reformed; 
First, 6?nd NstsNVV.; 
German A M, English 
PM. 

Hebrew ; Washing- 
ton Hebrew congrega- 
tion, 8th st between H 
& I sts NW. Services 
every Friday 7 P. M & 
Sabbath (Saturday) 9 
A. M. 

Lutheran ; Trinity, ^gjjl 
cor E & 4th sts NW.; = 
Memorial N and 14th 
sts N W. 

Presbyterian; 
Fourth, oth bet G & 
H sts NW ; Kew York 
av., New York av be- 
tween 13 & 14 sts NW. 

Unitarian; All 
Sauls', cor 14 & L sts 
NW. 

Uni versa list ; serv- 
ices in Talmage Hali, 
F between 9 & 10 sts. 

There are also many 
fine churches for col- 
. ored people. 




The Ascension Church (page 197). 



XIV 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 




The Census Office. 

Theatres. — The best places of amusement in the city are 
Ford's Opera House, on 9th st. W., immediately S. of Penn- 
sylvania av., and the National Theatre, on E st. N M bet. 13th 
and 14th sts. NW. Here the standard comedies and trage- 
dies and plays of the day are performed by excellent stock 
companies during the winter season, varied at intervals by 
Italian, German, or English opera, and the presence of the- 
atrical •" stars." 

General Amusements. — Concerts and lectures take place 
almost every night, and will afford recreation for those who 
prefer this character of entertainment. 

Etiquette, Ceremonies, and Formalities. — The population 
of Washington is divided into two classes : official and unoffi- 
cial, and society admits of the same classification. The first 
includes those actively associated with the various branches 



GE.NERAL INFORMATION. XV 

and departments, of the Government and retired officers of 
the Army and Navy and families. The second includes resi- 
dents in the capital not in official employment, and visitors. 

The Season. — The fashionable season commences with 
the New Year's receptions, and ends with the beginning of 
Lent. During this period life at the eapital is extremely gay. 
The congressional season begins on the first Monday in De- 
cember of each year, and, with a recess during the Christmas 
holidays, lasts till March 4 in the odd years and until June or 
July in the even years. During the months of July, August, 
and September, the prominent officials and residents leave the 
capital for places of summer resort. 

Receptions. — The reception season begins on New Year's 
day and lasts till the beginning of Lent. The days for after- 
noon receptions are arranged among the ladies of the families 
of the President, Cabinet Ministers, and Governor of the Dis- 
trict. The announcements are made daily during the season 
in the newspapers. Hours, afternoon, 2 to 5 p. m. ; evening, 
8 to 11 p. m. Afternoon receptions are open to all. Evening 
receptions are by card, unless otherwise announced in the daily 
newspapers. 

Titles — The following are the forms of address used in 
conversation with certain officials, viz : Mr. President ; to 
members of the Cabinet, Mr. Secretary, Mr. Postmaster Gen- 
eral, Mr. Attorney General ; Mr. Chief Justice, Mr. Vice Presi- 
dent, Mr. Senator, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Justice, for associates of 

the Supreme Court, and Mr. , for Representatives. The 

latter frequently have titles, as Judge, &c. Official commu- 
nications should be addressed, "To the President, "To the 
Chief Justice." and all others "To the Honorable, the Sec- 
retary of State," &c, or "The Honorable D. W., Secretary of 
State;" and to members of Congress, Honorable, with the 
name. The form customary for ladies of officials, is Mrs. 

President ; Mrs. General ; Mrs.. Secretary, &c. The 

following form of address for certain officers would be better 
than those now in vogue : For the Secretary of State, The 
Premier; other members of the Cabinet, Mr. Minister. 

Cards. — Whenever a visit is made or reception attended, 
a card, containing the name and residence in the city, should 
be sent in, or left with the usher, or in the receiver in the 
hall. Cards left at afternoon receptions are generally recog- 
nized by cards to evening receptions. Cards are generally 
issued lo all evening receptions, except those of the President 
and Speaker of the House of Representatives, and sometimes 
the General of the Army. In private calls, if the person 
called upon be out, turn down the right upper corner of the 
card, to indicate that called in person, if the call be upon 



XVI GENERAL INFORMATION. 

the family, under the same circumstances, turn down the 
right end. In making a farewell call, place P. P. C. on the 
lower edge of the card. 

A stranger, in calling upon officials, or at receptions, should, 
if his name be not announced by an usher or by card, men- 
tion it himself, so as to prevent embarrassment. 

Invitations. — In all cases, invitations to dimier should 
be promptly accepted or declined. It is not obligatory to 
espond to invitations to evening entertainments, unless re- 
tired in the letters R. S. V. P., though it is proper to recog- 
ze them formally. Invitations to evening receptions do 

ot require a reply. The general form of reply is : Mr. S 

presents his compliments to Secretary , and accepts with 

pleasure his invitation to dinner Thursday evening. Mon- 
day, Dec. — , 187 — . The form is the same, with adaptation, 
for evening entertainments. 

CaUjS. — The ladies of officials return calls. The President 
and wife are not required to return calls ; other members of 
the family can. The lower officials should always call first 
upon the higher; and ladies the same ; hours 2 to 5 p. m. 
Evening calls only allowed for social acquaintances. The 
first visit received should be returned in three days. Stran- 
gers, desiring to pay respects to any officials, can do so with 
propriety during office hours, sending in a card, marked " to 
pay respects," by the usher. 

DRESS. — For visiting and at all afternoon receptions such 
dress for ladies and gentlemen as is recognized in good soci- 
ety for morning calls should be worn. At all evening recep- 
tions and dinner parties, full evening dress for ladies and 
gentlemen should be strictly observed ; consisting, for gen- 
tlemen, of black dress-coat and pantaloons, white neck-tie, 
and light gloves. 

The President. — Cabinet days, Tuesdays and Fridays, 
hours of meeting 12 M. Business hours : During the session 
of Congress, the President receives Senators and Represen- 
tatives from 10 A. M. to 12 M. every day, except Sunday, and 
the public, by card through the usher in the ante-room, from 
12 M. till 3 P. M., except on Cabinet days and Sundays. The 
number admitted during hours is governed entirely by the 
time the President can spare from his public duties. Persons 
desiring to pay their respects only, should note "to pay res- 
pects" on their cards, and call the attention of the officer in 
in the ante-room thereto. During the adjournment of Con- 
gress, the President, when not absent from the Capital, usu- 
ally receives in the morning from 10 A. M. to 12 M. 
The President and family receive socially in the evening. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. XV11 

These visits, however, are only made by those warranted by 
their acquaintance to call upon them. 

Diplomatic representatives of foreign governments, upon 
their first arrival at the Capital, are presented in the Blue- 
Room, at a time fixed by the Secretary of State, with the 
consent of the President. The ceremony of presentation 
consists of an address by the Minister, and a reply by the 
President. 

The President's levees are announced through the press. 
No further invitation is necessary, and all strangers at the 
Capital are at liberty to call. The hours are usually from 8 
to 10 p.m. Music by the Marine Band. No dress is pre- 
scribed, though it is eminently proper to appear in the even- 
ing dress dictated by good society. Enter by the N". door, 
where the ushers will direct to the cloak rooms. Then enter 
the Red, and pass into the Blue-Room, where the President 
receives. Announce name to the Marshal of the District, 
who presents to the President. The Engineer in charge of 
Public Buildings and Grounds presents to the wife of the 
President. After paying respects, in order to make room 
for others, it is advisable to pass out at once into the Green 
and thence into the East-Room. 

The afternoon receptions at the President's House are al- 
ways held by the wife of the President, on such days as she 
may select. She is assisted by such ladies as she may invite, 
generally selected in alphabetical order from the wives of 
Senators and Members, who, by their official positions, are 
entitled to such consideration, and any friend. Hours, 2 to 
5 p. m. No invitations. Visitors in the city are at liberty 
to attend. The President, after office hours, often assists. 
Presentations are made in the Blue Room by the Engineer 
in charge of Public Buildings and Grounds. Approach as 
in levees, except that it is customary to leave a card at the 
door. Enter the Red Room. Dress the same as recognized 
by good society as suitable for morning calls. These recep- 
tions afford an excellent opportunity to strangers at the Cap- 
ital to view the suits of parlors, state dining room, and con- 
servatories. The latter are open to the public only oh these 
occasions. After leaving the Blue Room, pass into the Green 
and East Rooms. The corridor which leads from the East 
Room extends to the conservatories on the W. end. The 
President, during the winter, gives state dinners, to which 
thirty-six invitations at a time are issued, and comprise Sen- 
ators and Representatives, selected alphabetically. Their 
wives are also included. The President also invites promi- 
nent officers of the Government in recognized order. 

On New Year's day the President receives in the following 



XV111 GENERAL INFORMATION. 

order : Members of the Cabinet and Foreign Ministers ; 
judges of the Supreme Court of the United States; Senators 
and~Representatives in Congress; the Governor of the Dis- 
trict of Columbia and suite; judges of the courts of the Dis- 
trict of Columbia and of the United States Court of Claims ; 
officers of the army and navy ; Assistant Secretaries of depart- 
ments; Solicitor General; associations and the public. 

Chief Justice and Judges of the Supreme Court. — La- 
dies receive on Monday. Return visits. First call must be 
made upon them. 

Speaker's receptions are announced in the newspapers. 

General of the Army. — Reception of lady, Mondays. 
Expect the first call. The General's receptions are by card, 
unless otherwise announced in the newspapers. 

Admiral of the Navy. — Same as for General of the 
Army, except evening receptions always by card. 

The Cabinet. — The ladies of Cabinet "Ministers usually 
/eceive on Wednesdays, at which time visitors in the city are 
at liberty to call, leave cards with and give names to the usher 
at the door. Evening receptions by card are given by Cabi- 
net Ministers. The ladies of the Cabinet return visits. The 
first call must be made upon them. 

Senators and Representatives. — Ladies receive on 
Thursdays. Calls must be first made upon them. 

Governor of the District. — 



Diplomatic Corps. — Invitations are issued to all enter- 
tainments. .Receive calls first. There are also diplomatic 
evenings for members of the corps and families, and such 
others as the lady personally invites. 

Residents.— The ladies of the families of residents at the 
capital not in official life, call first. Their days at home are 
generally marked on their cards. 

Social precedence. — 1, The President; 2, the Chief 
Justice ; 3, the Vice President ; 4, the Speaker ; 5, the Gen- 
eral of the Army; 6, the Admiral of the Navy; 7, the Cabi- 
net, Secretary of State, Treasury, War, Navy, Postmaster 
General, Secretary of the Interior, and Attorney General ; 8, 
Senators ; 9, Associate Justices ; 10, Representatives in Con- 
gress ; and, 11, Governor of the District. 

Remarks. — General Jackson first introduced bad manners 
into the society of the President's House. The President, by 
virtue of his office, of a right occupies the highest social posi- 
tion in the land, and the observance of the formalities which 
are recognized in the surroundings of any American gentle- 
man's home should be accorded to the home of the President. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 



XIX 



Distances from Washington. 



Capitals of States or Territories are in capital letters. 



MILES. 

Albany, N. Y 374 

Albuquerque, N.M..2156 

Alexandria, Va 7 

Annapolis, Md 42 

Atlanta, Ga 721 

Augusta. Me 631 

Austin, Texas 1781 

Baltimore, Md 40 

Boise City, Idaho.. .2667 

Boston, Mass 458 

Brownsville, Tex... 1946 

Buffalo, N.Y 446 

Cairo, Illinois 977 

Carson City, Nev...2950 

Charleston, S. C 587 

Cheyenne, Wy. T....1850 

Chicago, 111 842 

Cincinnati, Ohio.... 611 

Columbia, S. C 519 

Columbus, Ohio 535 

Concord, N. H 503 

Deer LoDGE,Mon.T.2700 

Denver. Col. T 1950 

Desmoines, Iowa 1162 

Detroit, Mich 692 

Dover. Del 159 

Duluth, Minn 1437 

Erie, Pa 466 

Fort Abercrombie,1507 
Fort Benton, M.T..3130 
Fort Berthold, D.T.2186 
Fort Bliss, Tex . .. 2523 
Fort Boise, Idaho.,2669 



miles. 
Fort Bridger,Wy.T.2349 
Fort Dodge, Kan. ..1586 

Fort Fetterman 1984 

Fort Gibson,Ch.Na.l387 

Fort Hays, Kan 1525 

Fort Klamath, Ore.3320 
Fort Laramie, W.T.1906 
Fort Leavenworth. .1263 
Fort Randall, D. T.1535 
Fort Smith, Ark. ...1307 
Fort Wayne, Ind... 694 

Fort Yuma, Cal 3881 

Frankfort, Ky 731 

Galveston, Texas. ..1556 

Harrisburg, Pa 125 

Hartford, Conn 342 

Indianapolis, Ind... 715 

Jackson, Miss 10S2 

Jefferson City, Mo.1077 
Kansas City, Mo. ...1234 

Lansing, Mich -... 742 

Leavenworth, Kan. 1260 
Little Rock, Ark...llli 

Louisville, Ky 720 

MADisoN.Wis/ 974 

Memphis, Tenn 934 

MlLLEDGEVILLE, (^a„ 698 

Milwaukee, Wis 927 

Mobile, Ala 1082 

Montgomery, Ala ... 896 

Montpelier, Vt 556 

Nashville. Tenn.... 775 
New Haven, Conn.. 307 



miles. 
New Orleans, La.. ..1250 

New York, N. Y 229 

Norfolk, Va 233 

Olympia, Wash. T...3982 

Omaha, Neb 1298 

Pensacola, Fla 1050 

Philadelphia, Pa.... 139 

Pittsburg, Pa 374 

Por. land, Ore 3952 

Providence, R. 1 419 

Raleigh, N. C 313 

Richmond, Va 130 

Sacramento, Cal 3072 

Saint Louis, Mo 952 

Saint Paul, Minn..l285 

Salem, Ore 3834 

Salt Lake CityU.T.2464 
San Francisco. Cal. 3155 
San Juan Is., W. T.4047 
Santa Fe, N. Mex...2093 

Savannah, Ga 691 

Tahlequah, Ind.T..1300 

Sitka, Alaska 4535 

Springfield, 111 928 

Tallahassee, Fla..... 953 

Toheka, Kan 1302 

Trenton, N. J 170 

Tucson, Ar. T 2628 

Vancouver, W. T...3970 
Virginia City, M.T.2687 
Wheeling, W. Va.... 401 
Wilmington, Del... Ill 
Yankton, D. T 1449 



Foreign Distances, air-Line, from Washington, to 



miles. 

Belize 1410 

Berlin 3840 

Buenos Ayres 4870 

Calcutta ..8580 

Callao 3168 

Caracas 1830 

Cape Good Hope....7380 

Cape Horn 6450 

Chuquisaca 3670 

Constantinople 4870 

Georgetown, Br. G.2230 
Havana 1250 



MILES. 

Honolulu 4650 

Jerusalem 5490 

Lima 3180 

Lisbon 3180 

London 3300 

Mexico 1680 

.Nicaragua 1740 

Panama 1840 

Paris 3480 

Pekin 7680 

Rio de Jaaeiro 4300 



MILES. 

Rome 4080 

San Domingo 1300 

San Juan 1380 

San Salvador 1650 

Santiago, Chili 4700 

Spanishtown, Jam..l290 

St. Petersburg 4290 

Sydney, Aus 9150 

Tehauntepec. 1620 

Vera Cruz 1560 

Vienna.. 4110 



XX 



general information. 
Differences of Time. 



Table showing the mean time at 39 places in the United States 
and Foreign Countries, v. hen it is mean noon at Washington, 
D. C, United States of America. 

* Signifies forenoon and t afternoon. Time computed from the ob- 
servatories of all places marked (oj 



h. 

Albany. X.Y (o) f 

Alexandria, Egypt. f 7 

Astoria. Oregon * 8 

Augusta, Maine t •> 

Baltimore, Md. ...... f 

Berlin, Prussia (o) f C 

Boston, Mass t U 

Cambridge, Mass... (o) f 

Canton, China * 

Charleston, S. C * 11 

Chicago. Ill * 11 

Cincinnati, Ohio.... * 11 
Detroit, Michigan.. * 11 
Greenwich, Eng.... (o) f 5 

Honolulu, S.I * G 

.Teddo, Japan * 2 

Leavenworth, Kan. * 10 

Lima, Peru * 11 

Liverpool, Eng {o) t 4 

London, Eng (o) f 5 



m. 


s. 


13 


13 


7 


44 


52 


57 


23 


52 


1 


45 


1 


46 


23 


58 


23 


42 


41 


18 


48 


30 


17 


41 


30 


13 


36 


2 


8 


11 


36 


44 


28 


12 


49 


16 


59 


41 


56 


11 


2 


12 



h. 

Louisville, Ky f H 

Melbourne, Aus'lia * 2 

Memphis, Tenn * II 

Mexico, Mex * 10 

Milwaukee, Wis * 11 

Mobile, Alabama... * 11 

Montreal. C.E f 

Moscow, Russia (o) f 7 

New Orleans, La.... * 11 

New York, N.Y t 

Panama. C. A * 11 

Paris, France (o) f 5 

Philadelphia, Pa.... (o) f 

Rome, Italy (o) f 5 

Salt Lake, Utah * 9 

San Francisco, Cal. * 8 

St. Louis, Mo * 11 

Vienna, Austria (o) f 6 

Washington, D.C... (o) 



m. 


s. 


2C 


12 


48 


5 


7 


40 


■ 31 


50 


1(5 


35 


16 


6 


14 





38 


28 


8 


12 


12 


12 


50 


15 


17 


33 


7 


34 


58 


6 


39 


48 


58 


25 


7 


11 


13 


44 







~) 



tctttttc ^ipeiule Of 0,11 



rtcoyg 







I I 



SECTION I. 

WASHINGTON AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 



WASHINGTON. 




|HE Seat of Government of the United States 
of America has been appropriately called u the 
Virgin Capital." A territory under the exclusive 
j urisdiction of Congress had early received the atten- 
tion of the legislators of the new Kepublic; indeed, 
before the clamor of war had fairly ceased, or the 
royal standard of England had left its shores. The posses- 
sion of such a territory was an important feature in the de- 
bates upon the framing of the Constitution; and it was pre- 
eisety forty-eight days after the last act of ratification, that 
the Federal City of the American Republic was by solemn en- 
actment of the young Congress of the Thirteen Free and Inde- 
pendent States located on the beautiful eastern shore of the 
broad Potomac. It might be added, that not only is Washing- 
ton the only virgin capital in the world, but its foundation was 
simultaneous with the inauguration of the permanent form of 
government of the nation. Of being synchronous it lacked less 
than two years. The idea and the execution were essentially 
American. It was founded as the Capital of the Republic. It 
sprang out of the virgin soil, and its growth and magnificence 
were to be measured by the progress and taste of the people 
who constituted the Government of which it was to be the 
political head and centre and the permanent residence. 

Among the capitals of the great nations of modern times, 
in this particular Washington'stands alone. St. Petersburg, 
now the seat of the imperial residence of the Autocrat of all 
the Russias, rose out of the morasses of the Neva at the will 
of the great Peter. It was long what its founder called it, a 
look-out upon Europe, before the ancient capital of the Czars, 
in the fertile Moskva, left the sheltering walls of the Krem- 
lin for the banks of the Neva. Versailles, the queen of royal 
residences, sprang from a favorite hunting lodge of Louis 
XIII. A monarch like his successor was alone capable of an 



„ /£BLM. JULi\ 

rfA\ — I -inr/11 



REFERENCES 










1. TheCapitoL 

S. President*!* House. 

3. State Department- 

4. Treasury Department. 



19. Smithsonian Institution. 

20. Wn*hintt«J!> Monument. 

22. Greenouth'a Statue of W «'l»« ,w 
5. W „ Department. » KKSHBKB*'^ 

ft K^Ui'^^'S SSSSM- 

8. Post-Office Deparlnwnl- 

9. Department of Justice 
10. Department of Agrieuluin 



11. Naval Observatory. 

12. Arsennl. 

13. Navy-V.r.l 

U. Marine Kurrm-k 

l.\ C.mrt-Houre. 

16. JniL 

17. (US Arj-lum 

18. City Market,. 



20. OMrtMioniil BunalGr' ,uod 

27. Nnvul HonpitaL 

28. Government l'rinlin«Ora«. 
29 Medical Miirruni. 
SO. Slim 'I Office. 

II. WmJerMSu.Uinl. 

M nrawnfl SIAMC ol pcou. 

31. Mount Vena " 

1",. l.in olnStju. 

;y k SI int< r'l'" 



EQOODfts 

ffisioHlingDoa! 

58iMOODqgagQg§SB 




VIEQINIA 



Z GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. 

exhibition of extravagance such as this. The genius of Le 
Brim and Le Notre, and the expenditure of two hundred 
millions of dollars, did not make Versailles a capital. Its 
name and its associations are synonymous with the reckless- 
ness of a luxurious and dissolute court. Home, the city, of 
over twenty-six centuries, was government and capital , when 
Romulus, with his handful of Latins on the western slope of 
the Palatine ; Tatius, with his Sabiues on the Capitoline and 
the Quirinal ; and the Etruscans on the Cselian and Esquilinc, 
gathered around the forum, and laid the foundation of that 
career of greatness and power, which justly earned the proud 
title of Mistress of the World. But republican Rome rose 
on the ruins of the earlier kingdom of the Tarquins. Impe- 
rial Rome superseded the colossal fabric of the Republic of 
the Consuls, the Tribunes, und the Triumvirs. Pontifical 
Rome reared herself upon the crumbled throne of the Impe- 
rial Caesars. The Rome of to-day, the capital of United 
Itah', therefore, may well be said to be the mother, while 
Washington is the maiden, of capitals. 

Geographical Location. — Washington the Federal, or Capi- 
tal City of the United States of America, is situated on the. 
left or eastern bank of the Potomac River, between the 
Anacostia, or Eastern Branch of the Potomac, and Rock 
Creek, 106£ m. (statute) above the mouth of the Potomac 
River, by ship channel, from abreast the red buoy oft" Point 
Lookout to Arsenal or Geenleaf's Point, and 1S5£ m. from 
the buoy 1$ m. NE. of Cape Henry light, mouth of Chesa- 
peake Bay. The distance by air line to the mouth of the. 
Potomac River is 69 m., and to the mouth of the Chesapeake 
Bay 143 m. The distance from the Capitol by air line to 
the sea-coast, just below Cape Henlopen, the nearest point, 
is 105 m. ; and to the Chesapeake Bay, available for vessels 
of war, Patuxent River, 53 m. ; Annapolis 3SJ m.. and 
Herring Bay 39 m. 

The latitude of Washington (capitol) is 38° 52' 20" north, long- 
itude 76° 55' 30" .54 west of Greenwich, and 79° 15 / 41" .69 
west of Paris, both ascertained in 1821, under authority of 
Congress, by William Lambert of Virginia. 

The site of the city and the location of ihe public reservations, squares, Cap- 
itol and President's House, were selected by President Washington. The only 
direct reference to the location of the public buildings within the limits of the 
territory then accepted, was contained in a proviso in the amendatory act of 
Congress, approved March 30, 1791, requiring their erection on the Maryland 
side of the P -tomac. When the city was located, the northern limit of the 
United States was lat. 46 N. and the southern 31 N., placing Washington but 
23 min. or geographical miles south of the centre along the Atlantic Coast. 
The centre is now in the vicinity of Newberne, North Carolina, or 233 miles S. 
Another important c msideration in those primitive days was the fact, that on 



4 AREA. 

no part of the coast, within the bounds of the country, was there accessible to 
sea-going vessels a port situated so far inland 

The distances from the National Capitol to the remote points within the vast 
domain now under the jurisdiction of the republic, indicate the wonderful ex- 
tension of area attained by conquest and purchase during the first century of 
growth, viz To the north-eastern boundary on New Brunswick, 750 miles ; 
Rouse's Point, northern boundary, 598 miles; Cape Flattery, the extreme 
north-western boundary, on the Pacific Ocean, 4102 miles , Sitka, the capital 
of the Alaskan Possessions, 4535 miles ; to San Francisco, western boundary, 
on the Pacific Ocean, 3155 miles; Key West, Florida, 1494 miles ; Brownsville, 
Texas, the Mexican frontier, 1946 miles. \_For table of distances from Wash- 
ington to the principal cities of the United States and the world, see General 
Information.] 

Area. — The plot of the city lies on the W. side of the 
tract, 64 sq. m., within the present borders of the District of 
Columbia, and is 14 m. in circumference. It covers 6,111 a., 
or a little over 9J sq. m. The avenues, streets, and spaces 
comprise 2,554 a. ; the Government reservations, as origi- 
nally laid out, 541 a., and squares 3,016 a. The greatest 
length is from W. to S. of E. ; or from Rock Creek, between 
I and K sts. W., to the bank of the Anacostia, at 24th st. E., 
on B st. S., 4.57 m. The earlier plot is extended to 31st 
st. E. ; but the 7 additional streets and squares are subject 
to tidal inundation, and are generally excluded from the 
later maps. The greatest breadth of the city is W. of N., 
from Greenleaf Point, at the foot of the Arsenal Grounds, to 
Boundary, at 11 St. W., 3.78 m. The mean width from E. 
to W. is over 4 m., and length 2J m. The city lies 4 m. 
along the Potomac and about 3£ m. along the Anacostia. 

The following is a comparison of the geographical location, area and popula- 
tion of Washington with the leading' capitals of Europe : Washington. — Lai. 
38 52' 20" N. On Potomac Hiver, 106^ m. from its mouth. Area 9% sq. m., 
and 14 111. in circuit. Population, 1870, 109,199. London. — Lat. (St. Paul's), 
51° 30 48" N. On Thames River, 50 m. from its mouth, Area of old city 1 
sq. m. With city and liberty of Westminster and 5 boroughs, 31,313 sq. m. 
Population, 1870, 3,215,000. Paris. — Lat. 48° 50' 12" N. On the Seine River, 
no m from its mouth. Area 14 sq. m. Population, 1871, 1,950,000. Berlin. 
— Lat. 52 30' 16" N. On Spree River. Area 6,800 a., and 10 m. in circuit. 
Population, 820,000. St. Petersburg. — Lat. 59 56' N. On the Neva River, 
near its mouth. Area 6 m. in length and 5 in width. Population. 667,000. 
Vienna. — Lat. 48 12' N. On the Wein River, near the Danube. Circuit 15 
in. Population, 1872, 640,000. Rome. — Lat 41 54' 06" N. On the Tiber 
River, 17 m. from its mouth. Circuit 12 m. Population, 1872, 247,497. 

Government. — The municipal form of 1801, with amend- 
ments at various times, continued for nearly three-quarters 
of a century, in 1871 it was superseded by the territorial 
form, which was abolished by Act of Congress, June 20, 
1874, and a government of three commissioners substituted. 
(See Government, District of Columbia.) 

Finances. — (See District of Columbia.) 
Population (See District of Columbia). 
History. ( See page 235.) 



GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATION. ft 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 

The Federal Territory, or District of Columbia, is situ- 
ated on the left or E. bank of the Potomac River, at the 
confluence of the Anacostia or Eastern Branch 

Boundaries.— The District of Columbia comprises 64 
square miles. It lies entirely within the State of Maryland, 
and is bounded on the north by Montgomery county, on 
the east and south by Prince George county, and west by 
the Potomac River. 




Davie Burns Cottage ^scc rlistory, Page 23c.) 
The Federal territory as originally located by President Washington, under 
authority of the Constitution of the United States, and national and state legis- 
lation, formed a square of 10 miles (100 sq. m.). The bounds were proclaimed 
by the President March 30, 1791. On Friday, April 15, of the same year, at 
3 P. M., the municipal authorities of Alexandria, Virginia, repaired to the 
house in which the commissioners of Washington were residing, and after uni- 
ting with them in a glass of wine, to the sentiment '' May the stone which we 
are about to place in the ground remain an immovable monument of the wis- 
dom and unanimity of North America," the company proceeded to Jones' 
Point, or the upper cape, which projects into the Potomac River on the Vir- 
ginia side or right bank, at the confluence of Hunting Creek, then 1 mile E. of 
S. of the Court House of Alexandria, in the following order : Town Sergeant; 
Daniel Carroll, Commissioner, and the Mayor of Alexandria ; Andrew Ellicott, 
Surveyor and the Recorder ; the Aldermen and Common Council, not Free 
Masons; strangers, Master of Lodge No. 22, F. A. M. of Alexandria, with 
David Stewart, Commissioner, on his right, and James Muir, Pastor of that 
Episcopal parish on his left, followed by the rest of the fraternity and citizens. 



6 GOVERNMENT. 

Ellicott, " Geographer General," then ascertained the precise location » 
Jones' Point, as defined by the President's proclamation, whereupon the Mas- 
ter of the Lodge aud Dr. Stewart, aided by the craft, planted the initial or 
corner-stone of the Federal Territory, in accordance with the impressive rites 
of Masonry. The Rev. James Muir delivered an address. After parcaking of 
refreshments, the procession returned to the city, and closed the ceremonies of 
the day with a banquet and appropriate toasts and speeches. From this initial 
stone Mr. Ellicott, during the ensuing year, laid down the lines ot boundary as 
directed by the President's proclamation. The first at an angle of 45 W. of 
N., a distance of 10 m., into the State of Virginia ; the second also starting at 
the initial point, at a right angle with the first, or N. E., across the Potomac, 
10 m., into the State of Maryland, and the remaining two lines from the ter- 
mini of the first two and at right angles with them, respectively, N, E. and 
N. W., until they met each other in a point. The original Territory, it will be 
seen, stood diagonally, each angle facing one of the cardinal points of the com- 
pass. The N. point, as originally laid out, is % m. due W. of Silver Spring, 
Md ; the E. point 2^ m. S. of E. of Benning's Bridge, on the Anacostia ; the 
5". or initial point at the N. cape of Hunting Creek, called Jones' Point ; and 
the W. point near the source of Four-mile Run, in Virginia. The centre of the 
original Territory is marked by a gray free-stone, about 100 yds. W. of the 
Washington Monument, and on a line almost due S. from the President's 
House, at a distance of about % m - 

The lines were marked by square mile stones, with appropriate inscriptions 
on the side facing the territory, "Jurisdiction of the United States ;" 
facing thf> State, " Virginia," or " Maryland," according to location ; facing 
the North 4 » 1792," the year in which planted ; and facing the South, the po- 
sition of the Magnetic Needle. Many of these stones are doubtless still standing, 
but lost sight of amid the accumulations of decayed vegetation. It has beei. 
wisely suggested that the Government should define the lities of the Federal 
Territory of this now mighty Republic by tablets, columns and other marks, 
worthy and commemorative of its greatness. Shortly after the District was laid 
out this was seriously considered. It was proposed to build a great Fort at 
Jones' Point, on the site of the initial corner-stone of the Federal I'erritory, at 
the same time to constitute one of the defenses of the river approach to the 
Capital from the Sea and to be called Fort Columbia. It was actually com- 
menced, but was soon afterwards abandoned. 

In 1S46 all that portion of the District, consisting of about 36 sq. m., which 
lay on the W bank of the Potomac, in Virginia, was retroceded to that State, 
which reduced the area to 64 sq. m., its present extent. Since the retrocession, 
the short-sighted policy of that act has been demons rated. The question of re- 
storing the I'erritory to its first limits is being agitated. In the absence of ab- 
solute jurisdiction on both sides of the river, it is manifest that there must be 
interminable conflicts of interest and authority; the more so as the Capital in- 
creases in population, wealth and magnificence. The schemes of improvement 
of the Potomac in front of Washington and Georgetown also demand the 
possession of the Virginia shore. 

Political Divisions. — The District is divided into the cities 
;' Washington and Georgetown and the County of Wash- 

I I !()11. 

Government. — The Congress of the United States, in Nov., 
is .:;>. assembled for the first time in the City of Washing- 
ton. The jurisdiction of the United States over the Dis- 
trict vested on the first Monday of Dec, 1800. It was not, 
however, till Feb. 27, 1801, that Congress assumed direct and 
exclusive jurisdiction— all affairs of the district being first 
referred to a Committee for the District of Columbia for con- 
sideration and report. 



8 GOVERNMENT. 

The act of Congress approved February 21, 1871, created 
all that part of the territory of the United States included 
within the limits of the District of Columbia, into a govern- 
ment, by the name of the District of Columbia ; the execu- 
tive power to be vested in a Governor, to be nominated by 
the President and confirmed by the Senate, and to hold office 
for four years ; and the legislative power in a Legislative As- 
sembly, composed of a Council of 11 members, nominated by 
the President and confirmed by the Senate, to hold office two 
years, and a House of Delegates of 22 members, elected by 
the people, and to meet annually. There was a Board of 
Public Works for improvements, a Board of Health, charged 
with the sanitary care of the District, and a Delegate in Con- 
gress. 

On January 22, 1872, a memorial was presented to Con- 
gress, declaring that the Board of Public Works had usurped 
authority in making improvements, and was submitted on 
February 6, 1872, setting forth a great increase of the debt of 
the District of Columbia, and asking that this be prevented. 
An investigation was ordered. 

The committee, after an investigation consuming over three 
months, unanimously arrived at the conclusion that the then 
existing form of government of the District of Columbia was 
a failure ; that it was too cumbrous and expensive ; that it 
was wanting hi sufficient safeguards against maladministra- 
tion and the creation of indebtedness. The act of June 20, 
1874, based upon the recommendations of the committee, 
abolished the territorial form, alone retaining the Board of 
Health, and provided a provisional government of three Com- 
missioners until a permanent one was devised by Congress. 
This is now being done. 



The judicial courts of the District are subject to the legisla- 
tive action of Congress only. 

The salaries of all officers appointed by the President are 
paid by the U. S. ; all others by the District. The new District 
government went into operation June 1, 1871. 

Finances, estimated upon the tax le\y for the fiscal year 
ending June 30, 1874 : 

Assessed valuation of real estate in the District of Colum- 
bia, #96.433,072, viz : Washington, $80,539,782 ; Georgetown, 
$6,272,010; County of Washington, $9,621,280. Total actual 
valuation, $200,000,000. Revenue taxes. $1,700,000; gov- 
ernment appropriation bv Congress, $1,700,000. Rate of 
tax on $100, $1.50. 



POPULATION. 9 

The act of Congress of 1874. abolishing- tne territorial gov- 
ernment established in 1871, also embraced provisions for a 
thorough examination of the financial condition of the Dis- 
trict of Columbia and accounts of the Board of Public Works. 
This work has been carefully performed bv a Board of Audit 
and reported to Congress. 




THE van ness mansion. (See page 2IO.) 

The funded indebtedness, December 1st, 1879, was- 
District of Columbia, $19,835,200; late corporation of 
Washington, $1,833,123.33 ; late corporation of George- 
town $20,000. Total. $21,688,323.33. Provided for bv acts 
of Assembly of the District of Columbia, 1871, 72, '73, and 
of Congress, 1874, 75, 79, including the 3 T %% per cent, bonds 
maturing 1924, $13,504,900. covering the largest part 

Population. — The population of the District, inclusive of 
the County of Alexandria up to. 1840, and exclusive after, 
during each decade since its occupation bv the Government, 
\yji«.i 800. 14.003: 1810.24.023: 1820.33.039; 1830.30,834; 
i840, 43,712 ; 1850, 51,687 ; 1860, 75,080 ; 1870, 131,700 ; 1880, 
177,638; male, 83,594; female, 94,044 ; native, 160,523; for- 



10 INDUtmiV AND WEALTH. 

eign, 17,115: white, 118,236; colored, 59,402. 

By Civil Divisions— Georgetown, 1870, 11,384 ; 1880. 12,578; 
male, 5,854; female. 6,724; native, 11,764; foreign, 814; 
white, 8,819; colored, 3,759. 

Washington. 1800, 3,210; 1810, 8,208; 1820. 13,247, 1830. 
18 826 ; 1810, 23,364 ; 1850, 40,001 ; 1860, 61,122 ; 1870 109,- 
199; 1880, 147,307; male, 68,320; female, 78,987; native, 
133,070 ; foreign, 14,237 ; white, 99,128; colored, 48,179; size, 
14 in population. 

Remainder of the. District, 1870, 11.117 ; 1880, 17.753 ; male, 
9,420 ; female, 8,333 ; native, 15,689 ; foreign, 2,064; white, 
10,289 ; colored, 7,464. 



Miscellaneous Statistics, 1870. — Area, 64 sq. m.-; persons to 
a sq. m., 2,057.81. Families, 25,276; persons t« a family, 
5.21. Dwellings, 23,308 ; persons to a dwelling 5.65. Per- 
sons in each class of occupations : Agriculture, 1,365; male, 
1,350 ; female, 15. Professional and personal services, 29,845 ; 
male, 17,927; female, 11,918. Trade and transportation, 
6,126; male, 5,852; female, 274. Manufacture, mechanical, 
and mining, 11,705; male, 10,071; female, 1,634. Other 
statistical information will be found under appropriate heads. 

Vital Statistics.-The District is situated in one of the health- 
iest regions in the country. Notwithstanding the large num- 
ber of strangers constantly arriving in the city and the 
irregular habits of a large proportion, the average death-rate 
compares favorably with other sections. The census of 1870 
shows the following results: Oregon, 1 death to 146 popula- 
tion, the most favorable; Minnesota, 1 to 124; New Hamp- 
shire, 1 to 74 ; Pennsylvania, 1 to 66 ; District of Columbia, 1 
to 65; California, 1 to 62 ; Missouri, 1 to 61 ; Massachusetts,! 
to 56 ; Louisiana, 1 to 50. The percentage of deaths to pop- 
ulation in the District is 1.53. The aggregate number of 
deaths in 1870 was 2,015: males, 1,065; females, 950 ; ag- 
gregate population, 131,700. Of the deaths, 929 died under 
the age of 5 years. The principal diseases are pulmonary 
and fevers, in particular localities. The fevers are generally 
intermitting and bilious. 

Industry and Wealth, 1870.— Valuation of Property, $74,- 
271,693; assessed real. $71,437,468; personal, $2,834,225. 



12 GEOLOGY. 

True value, real and personal, $126,873,618. This is exclu- 
sive of the property of the General Government. Taxation, 
not national, total $1,581,569 ; county, $49,975 ; city, $1,531,- 
594 ; 1860, total $260,218 ; 1870, public debt, not national, 
$2,596,545. Agriculture: Acres improved, 8,266; woodland, 
2,428 ; other unimproved, 983 ; value of farms, $3,800,230 ; 
implements, &c. $39,450 ; value of productions, betterments, 
and additions to stock, $319,517. In 1860 there were 17,474 
acres improved and 16,789 unimproved, with a value of but 
$2,989,267. Manufactures : Establishments, 952 ; capital, 
$5,021,925; products, $9,292,173. In 1860 there were but 
429 establishments, with capital $2,905,865, and products 
$5,412,102. No mining or established fisheries. 

Agriculture. — The cereals and other crops of the N. belt 
of the N. temperate zone are cultivated with success in the 
District of Columbia. Fruits and vegetables in great variety 
are also grown. The markets of the capital are abundantly 
supplied from the vicinity, and rank with, if they do not ex- 
cel, the finest in other parts of the United States. 

Topography. — The District of Columbia presents a pleasing 
variety of landscape. On the shores of the Potomac, towards 
the NVV., the outlying spurs of the Blue Eidge range of the 
Appalachian chain approach the city, and form the wild and 
romantic scenery of rugged rocky hills and deep valleys along 
the Potomac at the Little and Great Falls. The remainder 
of the District consists of sweeping and graceful undulations. 
The Potomac, from the NW., and the Anacostia, from the 
NE., unite their currents about the centre of the original 
bounds of the District, from which point the main river flows 
in a southerly direction, until it passes the line. A number 
of smaller streams, including Kock and Tiber Creeks, which 
water all parts of the District, find their outlets into the Po- 
tomac or Anacostia. 

Geology. — The soil of the District bordering the Potomac 
is alluvial, formed by the rich deposits of the river, brought 
down from the mountains. The elevated lands consist almost 
exclusively of yellow clay, interspersed with sand and gravel. 
Occasionally a mixture of loam and clay is met with. Rock 
Creek divides the primitive from the alluvial soil. Above 
Rock Creek the shores of the Potomac are lined with primi- 
tive rocks. Shortly after leaving the District the red sand- 
stone appears. In some parts the stone frequently contains 
leaves of trees and ligneous fragments. A species of gneiss, 
composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica, is also abundant,, and 
constitutes the underlying rock of the entire District. 



ORNITHOLOGY. 13 

Mineralogy, — The mineralogy of the District is thus stated 
by Mr. Eobinsou, in his Catalogue : 

Flint, on the shores of the Eastern Branch of the Poto- 
mac, near the Navy Yard, in small nodules. 

Hornestone, containing organic remains. 

Agatized Wood, woodstone, three miles north from Wash- 
ington, sometimes invested with minute crystals of quartz, 
fine specimens, and abundant. 

Schorl, in Georgetown, in gneiss. 

Lignite and Pyritical Fossil Wood, found abund- 
antly in digging wells. 

Iron Ore, in the vicinity of the woodstone locality, in de- 
tached masses, on the surface. Organic remains in sandstone 
abundant. 

Botany. — A list of the plants indigenous to the District of 
Columbia, prepared by J. A. Brereton, in 1822, from the ma- 
terial collected under the auspices of the Washington Botan- 
ical Society, and entitled Florida Columbiana, presents 22 
classes and 288 varieties, following the Linnsean classification. 
Of the more familiar varieties found are the oak, (several va- 
rieties,) button-wood, red maple, sassafras, alder, mountain 
ash, linden, catalpa, locust, chestnut, tulip, horehound, pen- 
nyroyal, dogwood, blue-eyed grass, violet, wild honeysuckle, 
fox grape, Indian tobacco, mullien, wild sweet potato, night- 
shade, chickweed, touch-me-not, dog's bane, spiderwort, elder, 
sumac, calamus, superb lily, hellebore, free primrose, ground 
laurel, laurel, whortleberry, wild indigo, wild pink, cockle, 
poke, strawberry, dewberry, blackberry, sweet brier, May 
apple, columbine, ground ivy, motherwort, catnip, trumpet 
creeper, water-cress, wild pepper-grass, passion flower, crow- 
foot geranium, snakeroot, pea vine, wild potato vine, dande- 
lion, thistle, wild lettuce, sunflower, ladies' slipper, sedge, 
nettle, burdock, hog weed, Indian turnip, cucumber. 

Zoology. — The animals native to the region embraced within 
and contiguous to the District of Columbia in primitive times 
resorted to this vicinity in large numbers to feed upon the rich 
pastures found upon the alluvial banks of the Potomac. 
Among these were several varieties of deer. There were also 
panther, black bear, wild cat, wolves, red and gray foxes, 
rabbits, beaver, raccoon, opossum, squirrels, (several varieties,) 
field mice. The larger species are exterminated. The num- 
ber of species of all kinds is stated at 42. 

Ornithology. — The feathered kingdom is well represent- 
ed. Jefferson, in his Notes on Virginia, speaks of 100 vari- 
eties of birds, most of which doubtless were found in the 



14 CLIMATE. 

District. The wild turkey was found in great numbers. 
The canvas-back duck, which in earl}'' clays resorted to the 
vicinity of Analostan Island, is yet met with in the estu- 
aries of the streams below the city; also the wild goose, 
swan, mallard, blue-winged teal, widgeon, and other spe- 
cies. In the swamps are found snipe, rail, blackbirds, 
and reed-birds. The country generally abounds in quail. 
The hunting of feathered game is restricted by law. The 
autumn months generally constitute the season. The car- 
dinal grosbeak, mocking-bird, sparrow, linnet, yellow-bird, 
thrush, sand-piper, king-fisher, and heron are also met with. 
The number of species of all kinds is stated at 236. 

Ichthyology — The Potomac, within the District, is stocked 
with fish in great numbers, some of which are of the finest 
varieties. Those best known are the sturgeon, (weight from 
40 to 150 lbs.,) rock fish, (from 1 to 75 lbs..) shad, bass, gar, 
eel, (three varieties,) carp, herring, pike, perch, (four varie- 
ties,) catfish, mullet, (three varieties,) and smelt. The shad 
of the Potomac are of excellent quality. In the season they 
are very abundant, and may be seen caught on the Virginia 
shore opposite the city; also large quantities of herring are 
caught below the city. The laws of Maryland, as early as 
1768, provided for the protection of the fish. Subsequent 
acts placed a heavy penalty upon the destruction of young 
fish by weirs and dams, and to prevent beating with cords or 
poles at certain seasons of the year. A species of shark also 
ascends to the cits r . 

Herpetology. — There are about 50 species of reptiles. Of 
turtles and lizards there are several varieties. There are 
about 20 species of serpents, including the rattle, copperhead, 
black, garter, water, green snakes, and vipers. 

Climate. — The climate of the District of Columbia is gen - 
erally salubrious, though subject to sudden changes, particu • 
larly in spring The means for a series of years, compiled 
at the office of the Chief Signal Officer (Reports for the 
benefit of commerce), indicate these general conditionsof the 
atmosphere: Mean temperature, minimum, 7° to 9° Fah- 
renheit, maximum, 95° to 102°.5; mean Barometer, min., 
29.08 to 29.35 inches, max., 30.63 to 30.82; Rain Fall, max., 
5.8 inches to 7.8 in. ; Prevailing winds, northwest. The 
hottest months are July and August, and the coldest De- 
cember and February. Sleighing is rare. In summer storms, 
attended with excessive lightning and thunder, are frequent. 
In the winter of 1874-5 navigation on the Potomac was 
entirely suspended for several weeks on account of the ice. 



SECTION II. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY. 




AVENUES, SQUARES, STATUES, &c. 

HERE are three points within the city from which 
the finest views of Washington may be obtained : 
1st. The Dome of the Capitol. 2d. The West Por- 
tico of the Capitol, reached through the central hall 
of the Library of the United States. 3d. The higher 
of the north central towers of the Smithsonian In- 
stitution. Outside of the city the best points are from the 
tower of the Government Hospital for the Insane, beyond 
the Anacostia, and the portico of Arlington House, beyond 
the Potomac. The stranger should not fail to take advan- 
tage of at least one of these opportunities, and all would 
amply repay him. With the aid of this Hand-book and 
map he will thus be able to form a perfect idea of the city 
and the location of the principal public buildings. 

Topography. — The site of Washington covers an undulat- 
ing tract, which lies along the left or E. bank of the Potomac 
River, between Rock Creek and the Anacostia. From the 
rugged elevations on the banks of Rock Creek a crescent- 
shaped ridge crosses the northern portions of the city. About 
two thirds its length it suddenly parts, to allow the fitful cur- 
rent of the Tiber through. From that point it rises and 
spreads out into the expansive plateau of Capitol Hill, which 
overlooks the Anacostia on the E. Within this encircling- 
ridge the surface falls away in terraces and gentle slopes to 
the banks of the Potomac. In different parts of the city are 
eminences which afford commanding situations for the public 
buildings. 

From the lower falls of the Potomac at Georgetown, where 
the outlying spurs of the Blue Ridge Mountains give the face 
of nature a somewiiat rugged appearance, a chain of low, 
wooded hills range on the N\, and continuing on the op- 
posite shores of the Anacostia and Potomac, merge again in 
the hills on the Virginia side. These give the appearance of 
a vast ampitheatre, in the centre of which stands the city. 

The mean altitude of the city is about 40 ft. above the or- 

15 



lb" PLAN OF THE CU \ . 

dinary low tide in the Potomac opposite. The more impor- 
tant elevations, according to levels taker by Brev. Lieut. Co, . 
George W. Hughes, Corps of Topographical Engineers, in 
1850, are as follows : 

Foundation of St. John's Church, NE. corner of 16th 
and H sts. NW., opposite Lafayette Square and the Presi- 
dent's House, 65.50 ft. 

Corner of I and 19th sts. NW., 82.10 ft. 

East base of Capitol, 89.50 ft. 

Base of Naval Observatory, 96.20 ft. ■ 

Corner of IS" and 11th sts. NW., (highest point in the city,) 
103.70 ft. 

The soil upon which the city is built is generally a yellow- 
ish clay, mixed with gravel. In digging wells near New Jer- 
sey av. trees well preserved were found at a depth of from 6 
to 48 ft. At one point a stratum of black mud was discov- 
ered at a depth of 18 ft. 

The Tiber — so named more than a century before Wash- 
ington Mas founded, in the belief, it is said, that some day 
upon its banks would rise a capital greater than Rome, like 
its historic and larger namesake — runs through the city, di- 
viding it into two parts. Its fountain streams rise in the 
hills to the N., and enter the city in several branches, the 
principal one in the vicinity of 1st st. W. ; it then pursues a 
SE. and S. course, till it crosses Massachusetts av., when it 
winds Off to the SW. around the NW. base of Capitol Hill 
and across Pennsylvania av. and the Botanical Garden. 
Originally its course continued along the Mall and emptied 
into the Potomac immediately W. of the Washington Mon- 
ument. Subsequently it was diverted into the Washington 
Canal at 3d st. W., which followed the line of B st. N. along 
the N. borders of the Mall. The filling Of the canal led to 
further changes. The Tiber and its tributaries have since 
been utilized by diverting them into the sewerage system of 
the central and southern portions of the city; hence, although 
the stream traverses one of the most populous sections, its 
course is not traceable, the current flowing beneath heavy 
brick arches, upon which buildings have been erected and 
avenues, streets, and parks laid out. In primitive days the 
banks of the Tiber were lined with forests, and shad and her- 
ring in their season were caught in its waters, under the very 
shadow of the hill where the Capitol now stands. 

Plan of the City. — The plan of Washington was prepared 
in 1791 by Peter Charles L'Enfant, a French engineer of 
noticeable genius but eccentric habits, who had served in the 
Continental Army with sufficient distinction to attract the 



I III 




18 PROPOSED EMBELL^HBIENTS. 

attention of Washington . In the work he was gieatly as- 
sisted by the advice of Thomas Jefferson, who, when diplo- 
matic representative of the United States at foreign courts, 
had, with an intuitive vision of the wants of the future, stud- 
ied the plans of the cities of Europe visited by him, and was 
competent and prepared, with the aid of plans and his per- 
sonal knowledge of their details, to contribute an invaluable 
amount of information on this important subject. The plan 
adopted combines the artistic beauty and grace of Versailles 
and the practical advantages of Babylon, revived by William 
Penn in Philadelphia. In the conception of the plan, the 
predominating object was to secure positions for the different 
public edifices ; also squares and areas of different shapes, 
which would afford fine prospects. The avenues were in- 
tended to connect the most distant parts with certain princi- 
pal central points, to insure a reciprocity of views. Lines N". 
and S., intersected b} r others running E. and W., were to 
divide the city into streets and squares. These lines were to 
be so combined as to intersect at certain given points another 
set of divergent avenues, so as to form on the open spaces. 
Every grand transverse avenue and every principal divergent 
one, such jus from the Capitol to the President's House, Avas 
to be 160 ft. wide, laid out with 10 ft. sidewalks and 30 ft. of 
gravel-walk, planted with trees on either side, and 80 ft. of 
carriageway in the centre. The other avenues and streets 
leading to public buildings or markets were to be 130 ft. wirle. 
and others 110 and 90 ft. 

The site for the Capitoi was determined upon as the initial point in execu- 
tion of this plan. That important question having been decided, Mr. Ellicott 
drew a true meridian line by celestial observation, which passed through the 
area intended for the Capitol. This he crossed by another, a due E. and W. 
line, which passed through the same area. These lines were accurately 
measured, and formed the basis on which the whole plan was executed. All 
these lines were run by a transit instrument, and the acute angles were deter- 
mined by actual measurement, leaving nothing to the uncertainty of the com- 
pass. The avenues and streets were then laid down. 

The ideas of the projectors not only contempla^i a Federal City capable ot 
great expansion, but also took in its creditable embellishment. Although the 
want of means and the general apathy of the government and people allowed 
these suggestions to pass unrecognized, it is interesting to observe that the dis- 
graceful and neglected condition of the Capital of the United States for nearly 
three quarters of a century was not owing to any imperfections in the original 
plan. Directly S. of the President's House, in the triangular space between 
the Mall and the Potomac and the mouth of the Tiber, where the unfinished 
Obelisk to the memory of Washington stands, was located the site for the 
Equestrian Statue of Washington, voted by the Continental Congress in 1783. 
On E. Capitol st., between nth and 13th sts. E. , and about the centre of the 
high plateau between the Capitol and the Anacostia, where four avenues inter- 
sect, was laid out a spacious square, in which was to be erected an Historic 
Column, to be used also as a Mile or Itinerary Column, from which it was in- 
tended to calculate the distances to all places within the United States and on 
the continent. This column would have answered the purpose of the cele- 
brated Niphon-Bass or Bridge of Japan, at Yedo. This bridge is considered 



ORIGIN OF THE PLAN. 19 

as the centre of the empire. From it the Tocaido extends to all parts of the 
empire, and geographical distances are computed. At the foot of 8th st. W., 
immediately on the banks of the Potomac, and commanding a fine view of 
the widening reach of the river below, was to be erected a Naval Itinerary 
Column, to celebrate the first rise of the Navy, and "to stand a ready monu- 
ment to consecrate its progress and achievements." The crest of the knoll on 
which the Patent Office now stands was set apart for a National Church and 
Mausoleum, designed for the use of the Government on occasions of public 
prayer, thanksgivings, state funerals and orations, and for any other purpose 
national in character The edifice was to be assigned to the special use of no 
particular sect or denomination, but to be equally open to all. It was also to 
be the place for such monumental or other tributes of a grateful country voted 
by the then late Continental Congress for those heroes who fell in the cause ot 
liberty, and for such others as might be decreed a place there by the voice of 
the nation. Also, five grand Fountains were to be erected at different promi- 
nent points; one S. of the Capitol, in the large irregular space formed by the 
intersection of Virginia and North and South Carolina avs.; one on Maryland 
av., at the intersection of F and nthsts. N. E.; one at the intersection of Penn- 
sylvania and Louisiana avs., near the present site of the Centre Market; one 
on New York av., at the intersection of I St., between nth and 12th sts., N. W.; 
and one on the N. side of Pennsylvania av., at the intersection of I St., between 
20th and 21st sts. N. W. It was proposed to supply these fountains from the 
springs and streams within the limits of the city. Between the Capitol and 
the Botanical Garden it was intended to construct a Grand Cascade, to be fed 
from the Tiber. Between Pennsylvania and Maryland avs., from 3d st. W., a 
space of 1,200 ft. was laid down as the main approach to the " Federal House" 
or Capitol, and by which it was intended to reach the upper square of the 
" Federal House." The Mall was to form a grand avenue, 400 ft. wide and 
about 1 m. in length, bordered with gardens, to lead to the Equestrian Statue 
of Washington, or where the Monument now stands, and to connect the " Con- 
gress Garden with the President's Park." On E. Capitol St., which was to be 
160 ft. wide to the proposed bridge across the Anacostia, the pavement on 
each side was to pass under archways, with shops. On the S of the Presi- 
dent's Park was to be a well-improved "Field, 1,800 ft. wide and % m. long," 
part of the "Walk" from the President's House. This spacious reservation 
was designed for the more elegant houses and gardens of the city, to be used 
by diplomatic or other foreign representatives and prominent officials of the 
United States. Fifteen squares were to be distributed among the States in 
the Union, for them to embellish within a limited time, by the erection of 
some appropriate statue, or other mark, to the memory of the heroes of the 
Revolution, "to inspire the young," and designed to " leave a grand idea of 
patriotic interest." Lots were to be assigned for the use of churches, colleges 
and other institutions. All dwellings or other structures were, to be built in 
accordance with certain regulations, so as to preserve uniformity. 

Origin of the Plan. — The resemblance between the plans 
of L'Enfant for Washington and L'Notre for Versailles will 
be apparent to any one who has visited the capital of the 
Western Republic and the magnificent royal residence of 
the kings of France. The grand avenues de Sceaux and de 
St. CWud, diverging from the Cour Royale, are reproduced 
in Pennsylvania and Maryland avs., radiating from the E. 
front of the Capitol; E. Capitol st. is the Avenue de Paris; 
the Boulevard du Roi and the All£e du Potager in N. and 
S. Capitol sts.; and the Allees de la Reine, de Noisy, des 
Paons, and de la Reine, which diverge from the E. extrem- 
ity of the Grand Canal, near the Basin d'Apollon, with the 



v ( ; llEfcEKVA'ilOiNS 

omission of Allee de la Reine to the SW., respectively, in 
Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New York avs. W. of the 
President's House. The missing avenue in the plan of 
Washington, the continuation of Vermont av., would have 
completed the resemblance, but for the interference of na- 
ture : the Potomac and the mouth of the Tiber standing 
in the way of the extension SW. of the President's House. 
Other striking features of the design of Versailles are observ- 
able. Washington, however, having in view the practical as 
well as the beautiful, might be said to combine the plans of 
two cities. The streets running at right angles have a regard 
for the facilities of business. While over these, with an eye 
to beautiful prospects and the advantageous display of the 
centres of attraction, at long ranges are laid the broad ave- 
nues, carrefours, allees, and lawns of the imperial retreat at 
Versailles. 

Though the city was originally laid out on a scale adequate to the necessities 
of a metropolis of more than half a million inhabitants, and with the proper 
regard for the adornment of the Capital of a great people in the future, the 
crude ideas entertained by subsequent statesmen respecting the political status 
of the Federal Territory and city were adverse to any expenditure other than 
to establish there a simple place of meeting for the representatives of the States 
— a sort of central agency, where the President and Executive officers might be 
stationed, and where Congress might come once a year or oftener, as the exi- 
gencies of the times required, to transact the business intrusted to them by the 
Constitution — mainly to pass laws, appropriate money, levy taxes, declare 
war, ratify treaties, and confirm nominations. This class, then in the ascend- 
ency, found it impossible, or were unwilling, to see anything national in the 
foundation of a Federal Capital, and consequently opposed every measure 
looking beyond the mere provision of accommodations for the public offices. 
To build a capital in every sense symbolic and worthy of the Union was en- 
tirely foreign to their interpretation of the meaning of that portion of the Con- 
stitution which gave Congress the powor to accept and exercise exclusive juris- 
diction over a Territory to be solely devoted to the uses of the nation for the 
purposes of the Government. These notions, it would seem, were a revival of 
a practice in Germany centuries ago. On the left bank of the Rhine, imme- 
diately below the ancient village of Rhense, on the very brink of the stream, 
and apart from the habitations of men, is still to be seen the famous though 
rude rostrum or temple known as the Koenigsstuhl. It consists of stone seats, 
within a small circular wall, and overhead entirely open to the air. Here, in 
the earlier ages, the German electors assembled to deliberate upon the affairs 
of the empire, to perform acts for the common good, to make treaties, and to 
nominate or depose the emperors. Washington, by the class alluded to, was 
viewed in the light of the Koenigsstuhl of the United States. More mature 
thought, however, at last brought the people to look upon their capital as the 
political metropolis of the United States. This enlightened view is recent, 
dating no further back than 1861. It was not till 1870 that the march of much- 
needed improvement commenced. With this new state of affairs the Capital is 
annually becoming more worthy of the greatness of the Republic of over fifty 
millions of people. 

Eeservations. — In the plan of the city a liberal allowance 
of space was selected and marked out in the most desirable 
localities for the sites of public buildings, parks, and for other 
purposes of the Government. These grounds were called res- 



ttESEilVAriOJNiS. 



^1 



ervations, and were numbered from 1 to 17, with an 
aggregate area of 541 acres, 1 rood, 29 perches, fo? which 
Hie government paid $66.66f per acre, total $36,099, from 
money arising out of the sale of city lots granted by the 




mill's status of Washington. (See page 39.) 

original proprietors. These reservations were selected by 
President Washington for public purposes. Those still pos- 
sessed by the Government— several having been sold or 
granted away since, leaving 513 acres — are designated on 
the maps by their original numbers, but are popularly 



22 RESERVATIONS. 

called after the principal buildings situated on them, or 
from the uses to which assigned, as follows : 

No. i. The President's Grounds extend from H st. N. to B st. N., and 
from 15th to 17th sts. W., with the excepiion of a square in the NE. and 
NW. angles. On these grounds are the President's House, conservatories, 
and stables, flanked on the E. by the Treasury Department, and on the W. 
by the State, War. and Navy Departments. Total area, 83 a. 1 r. 22 p. 

No. 2. The Capitol Grounds and Mall extend from 1st st. E. to the pro- 
longation of 15th st. W., and between B sts. N. and S. On these grounds 
are the Capitol, Botanical Garden, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Ag- 
ricultural Department. Total originally, 227 a. o r. 8 p. Under authority 
of Congress, in 1872, squares No. 687 and 688, in the NE. and SE. angles of 
the E. Park, were purchased an-i thrown into the grounds. The deficient 
portion of the Mall was disposed of in 1822. See Reservations Nos. 10, 11 
and 12. 

No. 3. The Park extends from the W. line of the Mall, on 15th st. W., to 
the banks of the Potomac, and is separated from the President's Grounds by 
B St., N., formerly the line of the Tiber Creek and the Washington Canal. 
The old channel of the Tiber entered the Potomac on the NW. border of 
this reservation. These grounds are occupied by the Washington Monu- 
ment and the Government Nurseries. Total area, 29 a. 3 r. 9 p. 

No. 4. The University Square extends from E. st. N. to the banks of the 
Potomac, and between 23d and 25th sts. W. On these grounds is the Naval 
Observatory. Total area, 21 a. o r. 18 p. 

No. 5. The Arsenal Grounds, foot of 4^ st. W., originally included 
the point of land at the confluence of the Anacostia and Potomac, from 
Greenleaf's Point to T st. S., and between the mouth of James Creek and 
the line of 3d St. W. to the Potomac. Total area, 28 a. 2 r. 31 p. This 
reservation in 1857 was extended by the purchase of the land between the 
line of the canal into James Creek and W. to the Potomac and N. to Pst. S. 

No. 6. The West Market Square, on the Potomac, at the foot of 20th and 
21st st. W. covered with water. 

No. 7. The Centre Market Square, between the point of intersection of 
Pennsylvania and Louisiana avs. and B st. N., and from 7th to 9th sts. W. 
Total area, 2 a. 3 r. 29 p. This reservation years ago was granted by the 
President to the corporation for the erection of a market. In i860 it was 
granted to a private corporation by which the present handsome structure 
was erected, now the principal market in the city. 

No. 8. The National Church Square, between 7th and 9th sts. W. and F. 
and G. sts. N., occupied by the Patent Office. Area 4 a. o r. 22 p. 

No. 9. Judiciary Square, between the intersection of Indiana and Louisiana 
avs. and G. st. N., and 4th and 5th sts. W., occupied by the City Hall. 
Area, 19 a. 1 r. 27 p. In 1819 a portion of this reservation was granted by 
Congress to the corporation for a Town House or City Hall. 

No. 10 Reservation North of Pennsylvania av. between 3d and 4^ sts. W 
In 1822, granted by Congress to the corporation, to be sold in lots, to pay for 
the removal of the canal, which then ran along the S. side of Pennsylvania 
av., to the centre of the Mall, from 3d to 6th sts. W., and to fill up the low 
grounds in that vicinity. Total area, 6 a. o r. 31 p. 

No. 11. Reservation between B andC sts. N. and 2d and 3d sts. W. Total 
area, 3 a. 24-. 34 p. Disposed of same as reservation No. 10. 

No. 12. Reservation North of Pennsylvania av., between 2d and 3d sts. W. 
Total area, 1 a. 1 r. 4 p. Disposed of same as reservations Nos. 10 and 11. 

No. 13. Hospital Square, from the Anacostia to 19th st. E. and between B 
andG sts. S. Total area, 77 a. o r. 26 p. On this square stands the Maga- 
zine, Alms House, and District Jail. 

No. 14. The Navy Yard is bounded by M st. S. and the Anacostia, and the 
continuation of 6th and 9th sts. E. Total area, 12 a. 3 r. 15 p. On these 
grounds are the buildings, docks, ship-houses, and works of the Washington 
Navy Yard. 

Nos. 15 and 16. Eastern Market House Squares, near the Navy Yard. 
These reservations were granted by Congress to the municipal corporation 



RESERVATIONS. 



23 



for the purpose stated. Area, No. 15, 1 a. o r. 21 p. ; No. 16, 1 a., o r. 23 p. 
* r o. 17. Town House Square, the irregular space S. of the Capitol, between 

S. Capitol st. and 3d st. E. and E and H sts. S. Total area, 21 a. 1 r. 29 p. 
The aggregate area of the public reservations in the city, deducting those 
disposed of, correction of errors, and modifications, is 513 acres. 

In 1812 the President of the Urited States was authorized to take possession 




brown's statue of general scott. (See page 36.) 



of the whole of the public reservations, and to lease them out for not exceeding 
ten years, on such terms and conditions as in his judgment might best effect 
their improvement for walks, botanic gardens, or other public purposes. 

A detailed description of the reservations occupied by 
the Government will he found in connection with the 
public buildings or their other designating feature. 



24 



AVENUES. 



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ec coo 1 " 


oo ^ 


cccoSi* 


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a V J. A U £.0. l^t) 

Avenues and Streets.— The 21 avenues and 107 streets 
of the Capital have an aggregate length of 279 m. — aven- 
ues 65., streets 21 4 m. — and are of greater width than those 
of any other city in the world. Originally there were 13 
avs., named after the States in the Union when the city 
was laid out. Others on the first plan, but undesignated, 
were named after States subsequently admitted, though 
not in the order of their admission. The avenues radiate 
from principal centres or connect different parts of the 
city. With the alleys and open spaces at intersections 
the highways cover 2554 a., or nearly one-half of the area 
of the city. For location of avenues and streets see map of the 
city facing page 14 ; for location, width and course of avenues 
and streets see ''Table''' 1 page. 24. For description of ovevvex 
see page 26. 




f^y^ r^ho of street areas to areas of toree of the principal cities in the 
United States and the same number in Europe is : Paris, France. 25.8 per cent • 
Berlin, Prussia, 26.4 per cent. ; Boston, United States, 26.7 per cent. ■ Phila- 
delphia United States, 29.8, per cent. ; New York, United States, 35.3 pei 
cent. ; Vienna, Austria, 35.8 per cent.; Washington, United States, 41.8 per 
cent, lhe carriage ways of the avenues and streets are well laid, with a vari- 
ety ot pavements amounting to over 160 in., embracing Belgian, granite cob- 
ble-stone, Neufchatel, concrete, wood, Macadam and graveled. This length 
is computed on the basis of an assumed width of 32 ft. The improved styles of 
pavements have been laid on principal thoroughfares of business and pleasure 
and on the avenues and streets occupied by the better class of residences' 
t£ C ">bble-stnne, in streets less traveled, mostly south of Pennsylvania av. 
1 He Macadam is but little used within the city, owing to the dust but is ex- 
tensively employed on the highways traversing the rural districts within the 
Territory. 

Under the old corporation, with the exception of a few spasmodic attempts 
as the necessities of an increased population became urgent, no efforts were 



26 AVENUES. 

made to improve the avenues, streets, and spaces. Underact of Con^u^s 
April 6, 1870, one-half of the width of many of the avenues and street *as 
set apart for parking, leaving a roadway of not less than 35 ft. width in the 
centre, or two such road-ways on each side of the park, should that be placed 
in the centre. Pennsylvania and Indiana avs. and 4^ st. W., between the 
City Hall and Pennsylvania ave., were excluded from this arrangement. On 
July 8, of the same year, Congress authorized the paving of Pennsylvania 
av. at the Government expense. Under the Board of Public Works, a sys- 
tem of grades was adopted, to which all avenues and streets were made to 
conform. 

Description of Avenues. — The broad thoroughfares are 
among the principal attractions of the National Capital, and 
the finest possessed by any city in the world. A drive upon 
them, especially of an evening:, when thronged with hand- 
some equipages, affords a truly enjoyable recreation. 

Pennsylvania av. is not only the principal, but also one of 
the two longest in the city. It is, however, twice interrupted 
in its continuity — by the President's House and Capitol. Its 
width varies from 130 to 1G0 ft. It is about 4£ m. in length, 
from Georgetown and Rock Creek to the Anacostia, and is the 
main line of communication across the city. Along its route 
are the Washington Circle, the War and Treasury Departments. 
and Presidents House. From 17th to loth sts. the avenue pre- 
sents a particularly fine prospect, passing between the Noril 
Park of the President' 's Grounds, in front of which is a side- 
walk 34 J ft. wide, and Lafayette Square. From loth st. W. tc 
the Capitol it traverses the entire length of the finest business 
quarter and the fashionable drive. It thence winds up and 
around the hill surmounted by the Capitol, and continues to 
its terminus on the banks of the Anacostia. At the foot of 
8th st. E., leaving this avenue, is the Navy Yard. 

Pennsylvania av. was also the earliest used. In 1800 it was opened and rudely 
drained from the Capitol to Georgetown, and yet it was nothing better than a 
marsh. During the administration of Jefferson, from the Capitol to the Presi- 
dent's House it was laid out in three roadways. A row of Lombardy poplars 
was planted between the centre or main roadway and that on either side. A 
flag-stone footwalk also ran from the Capitol to Georgetown. In 1825 the side- 
walk on the S. side was paved with stone from the Capitol to the Navy Depart- 
ment. In 1832 the trees were cut down, the curbs extended, and a drained, 
macadamized roadway, 45 ft. wide in the centre, laid out. The " centre strip," 
however, was not entirely completed till 1849, ar> d then was shaded with elms, 
maples, and " trees of heaven.'' In 1842 it was iighted with lamps from the 
Capitol to the President's House ; subsequently it was paved with cobble- 
stones, and so remained till 1870, when it was improved in a manner commen- 
surate with its prominence as a thoroughfare. 

Massachusetts Avenue is the longest unbroken in the 
city, being over 4j m. It begins at the NVV. Boundary; is 
160 ft. wide, and extends to the Anacostia SE., intersecting 
New Hampshire and Connecticut avs., forming the P-street 
Circle; Vermont av., forming the Circle of Victory (Thomas 
Statue); New York av., at Mount Vernon Place; New Jer- 
sey and Delaware avs.; Maryland av. at the Statue of Greene; 
Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentucky avs., at Lincoln 
Square (Statue of Emancipation,) and thence to the Hospital 
Grounds on the Anacostia. 



±>±.o^tiilrx±ui\ UJ) AVENUES. 



This avenue gradually rises to an elevation considerably above the surround- 
ing heights, from which it descends in easy graduation to the middle of the 
broad intermediate valley, and rises again on the east. On its route are the 
finest circles and squares, and many of the most costly residences. It is well 
paved, and bordered with a choice variety of trees. 




Simmons Naval Statue, or Monument of Peace. 

The naval monument, designated by Congress the Monument of Peace, de- 
signed by Admiral Porter, U. S. N., and erected from subscriptions started by 
him, 1865, in his fleet, on the fall of Fort Fisher, " In memory of the officers, 
seamen and marines of the United States navy who fell in defense of the union 
and liberty of their country, i86i-'65." From officers, midshipmen and men, 
>9,oco, from prominent gentlemen, (including Secretary Borie, $1,000,) $4,000, 
increased Dy investment in U. S. securities. .Contracted for, 1871, with Frank- 
lin Simmons, sculptor, of Maine, for $21,000, Ravacchione Carrara marble, 
height, 44 ft., erected without ceremonies, 1877. The surmounting- figures 
represent History recording the woes narrated by America ; west of plinth., 
Victory crowns young Neptune and Mars; east, Peace offering the olive branch 
and surrounded by the products of the peaceful arts. Latter paid for, $2,000, 
out of appropriation, $20,000, by Congress, 1876, for foundation, platform, steps 
and circular basin, designed by Edward Clark, architect of the Capitol. Cas-'. 
cades flow from the mouths of bronze dolphins in the sub-base, and four artis- 
tic lamp posts stand on the rim of the basin. The monument was admired in 
Rome as one of the finest works of the kind ever sent to America. It was 
transported from Leghorn on board the U. S. ship Supply, and landed at the 
Navy Yard, Washington. Inscription on the tablet, held by History, " They 
died that their country might live.'' The monument stands on Pennsylvania 
Av.,at the western base of Capitol Hill. It is 40 ft. high; the figures are 6ft. 



'J.& 



DESCRIPTION OF AVEMUEb. 



Vermont and Connecticut Avenues, 130 ft. wide, ex- 
tending respectively NE. and NW. from the N. side of La- 
fayette Square, opposite the Executive Mansion. 

On the former are many beautiful private residences, and the Statues of 
McPkerson and Thomas, and on the latter the elegant edifice of the English 
Legation and the property of that government. 

New York Avenue, 130 ft. wide, begins at the Potomac 
river, SW. of the Department of State, and runs across the 
city in a NE direction. 

Its continuity is interrupted by the park of the Executive Mansion. From 
the Treasury Department ME. it is parked in the centre, and has a vista of 
elms. At the intersection o f Massachusetts av. is ?. beautiful bronze fountain. 

Maryland Avenue, itiu ft. wide, beginning at the Wash- 
ington terminus of The Long Bridge across the Potomac, 
extends N£. across the city to the Baltimore Turnpike. 

From the iormer to the (J;ipitol it is mostly a railroad thoroughfare. 




Ball's Statur up Emancipation (See page 38). 
T..C temahimy avenues .ire more or less improved, but as yet present no spe- 
Ciat attractions. New Jersey and Delaware avs. cross each other at the Cap- 
itol, and present fine sweeps of vision from that structure. Rhode Island and 
New Hampshire avs. in the NW. portion of the citv, are rapidly filling up 
with private residences of a striking variety of architectural design and ele- 
gance. For names, widths and courses of avenues see " Table" 1 page 24. 
For location and interesting points see map of the city in this Handbook. 






DESCRIPTION OF AVENUES. 



29 



Executive Avenuf, laid out in 1871, begins at Pennsylvania av., E. and W. 
of the Executive Mansion, and passes the Treasury and State, War, and 
■Navy Departments respectively The N. entrances consist of six massive 
granite gate-posts, upon which are swung immense iron gates. A granite 
staircase, 20 ft. wide, and a beautiful fountain stand W. of the Treasury De- 
partment. Walks lead from the Departments to the Executive Mansion. 
Passing S., the two wings of the av. form a semi-circle, uniting opposite theS. 
Portico of the Executive Mansion, and proceed in a broad single line due S. 
to B st. N., where the av. enters the c'ark or Monument Grounds, and joins 
the beautiful Drive, commenced in 1872, connecting the President's and Capi- 
tol Grounds. 




Robisso's Statue of McPherson. (See page 36.) 

The Drive. — Leaving the S. terminus of Executive av., 
the Drive, consisting of a gravel roadway of 35 ft., planted 
on either side with trees, sweeps along the banks of the 
Potomac, affording a superb view of the expansive bosom 
of the river N. till lost behind the hill crowned by the 
Naval Observatory, and S. as far as the Long Bridge. 

On the left is a beautiful lake, covering 3 a., fed by a spring on its SE. border 
and a fountain in the centre. On the right are ponds for the propagation of 
fresh-water fish, under the auspices of the United States Fish Commission. 
About 100 yds. W. of the Washington Monument, is a gray freestone, a little 
over 2 ft. in height which marks the centre of the District of Columbia, as laid 
out in i79i-'o2. The Drive now winds round the Monument. On the S. is 
the Government Propagating Garden ; also the stately edifice of the Bureau of 
Engraving and Printing The Drive then enters the Agricultural Grounds , 
a beautiful reservation. At this point also commences the Mall. Prior to 1816 
this attractive portion of the public grounds was covered with majestic oaks. 



,0 



bAit-chi'S. 



at 12th St. W., the drive now enters the quiet retre.a of t!\e Smithsonian Insti- 
tution, Armory Square, so named from the former Armory of the District 
Militia located on the S. portion, to 6th st. W., where it will cross the track of 
the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad, on an ornamental iron bridge, with a 
40 ft. roadway, and 12 ft. sidewalk on either side, constructed by that company 
in compliance with the act of Congress, and terminates opposite the W. en 
trance to the Botanical Garden. It is proposed to extend the drive across the 
garden, so as to complete the connection with the Capitol Grounds without 
leaving the line of the Mall, thus carrying out the original plan of the city, 
which contemplated " a walk and drive between the President's House and 
the Capitol." The Drive is nearly 2 in. in length. 




BRONZE STATUE OF GEN. GKEEN (SEE PAGE 3S.) 

Streets. — All streets in the city are designated from the 
Capitol, North, and South Capitol Streets, intersecting the 
Capitol from North to South, and East Capitol Street and 
its prolongation on the the Mall from east to west, crossing 
at right angles, constituting the base lines and dividing the 
city into four sections. 

The numbered streets range in parallel lines east and west of the Capitol and 
lettered north and south, as A st. N. or S., or ist st. E. or W., according to the 
situation with respect to the Capitol, as A and ist sts., Northeast, Southeast, 
Northwest, Southwest, for every locality, it being necessary to designate the 
section. The principal public buildings, parks, business and fashionable parts 
of the city are in the Northwestern quarter. There are one hundred numbers 
in each block, beginning at the Capitol and extending to the four points of the 
compass {For additional information, see page 24. and map of the cit— x 



EtENOMECLATURE. 



31 



The city in addition to its magnificent avenues possesses 
many attractive streets. Prominent amongst these are F, 
I, K. and M, sts. N., and 4J, 11, 14, and 15 sts. W., upon 
which are some of the most beautiful private residences. 
The fine thoroughfare extending East of the Capitol, 
known as East Capitol Steeet, was originally designed to 
be the chief street of the city ; North and South Capitol 
Streets running from the Capitol, lie on the^rs^ meridian 
of longitude for the United States, as laid down, in 1791, 
by Ellicott ; 7th Street W. is devoted exclusively to trade. 
( For location of streets see Map ; for width see " Table," page 24.) 




FOUR AND ONE-HALF STREET. (JarviS.) 



Renomenclature. — Jt is proposed to abolish the present system of no- 
menclature of the streets with duplicate letters and numbers. This plan is not 
only extremely confusing to strangers, but embarrassing and a source of great 
inconvenience to residents. The proposed renomenclature contemplates for 
streets running N. and S. a system of consecutive numbers, beginning at 28th 
St. W.,. which would be 1st St., and terminating at 31st st. E., which would be 
60th St., the additional street necessary to make up that aggregate being 4^ 
st. W. or 2Tst st. First Sts. W. and E. at the Capitol would be 29th and 30th 
sts. respectively. N. and S. Capitol sts. would retain their present names. 
It is also proposed to adopt for the streets running E. and W. a nomenclature 
which would require no alteration in the letters, selecting for each the name 
of some citizen eminent in the service of the Government or in private life, the 
initial letter to correspond with the letter which now designates the street. 
For instance : 

Streets North of the Capitol — Adams, Benton, Clay or Clinton, 
Douglas, Everett, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton. Jefferson, Kent, Lincoln, 
Marshall, Nelson, Otis, Peabody, Quincy, Randolph, Story, Tompkins, Up- 
shur, Van Buren, and Webster. 

Streets South 0/ the Capitol— Anderson, Bainbridge, Chaun- 



>ey, Decatur, Ellsworth, Farragut, Grant, Harrison, Jackson, Knox, Law- 
rence, Marion. Nash or Nicholson, Overton, Perry, Quitman, Rodgers, Scott, 
Taylor, Union, Van Ness and Warren. 

Parking.— The street parks and sidewalks of the city are 
generally planted with trees possessing the merits of state- 
liness and symmetry of growth, expansive foliage, early 
spring verdure, and variety of colors in autumn. 

The varieties used are the silver maple, American linden, European syca- 
more maple, American elm, tulip tree, sugar maple, sweet gum, red maple, 
Norway maple, negundo, American ash, buttonwood, oaks, and European 
ash and linden. The trees are usually planted 40 feet apart and properly cared 
tor. Certain varieties are confined to certain streets. The supply is kept up 
from the reserve Nursery on the banks of the Anacostia, S. of the Alms House, 
<\vhere there is constantly a stock of upwards of 20,000 plants from 2 to 9 feet id 
height. This parking adds vastly to the adornment of the capital. 

Quarters — The arrangement of the streets with respect 
to the Capitol divides the city into 4 sections. 

The Northwest Quarter constitutes the finest portions of the capital, embrac- 
ing the President's House, all the Departments and Foreign Legations, the 
principal business establishments and fashionable residences. The Southwest 
Quarter, formeily known as " the Island," from its separation from the rest of 
the city by the Washington Canal, now filled, is generally the quarter of per- 
sons of moderate means. In it are also the wharves. TheNo? theast Quarter 
is the same as theSW. The Southeast Quarter, with a small portion of the 
NE., is known as " Capitol Hill," from the Capitol, which stands on the W. 
brow. It was intended, originally, co make this the finest portion of the city 




The Tiber Arch (outlet of Great Sewer). 

Sewers.— The cities of Washington and Georgetown, for 
ewerage and drainage, are divided into 5 sections. 

i. The Georgetown and Slash Run District. Draining that city, the N. 
W. portions of Washington, Slash Run, and small streams N. W. of the city. 
The main sewer, ^ m. long, 10 ft. span, with 7 miles of brick and 30 miles of 
pipe tributary sewers, disembogues into Rock Creek. 



SEWEK8. 



33 



2. The Boundary District, intercepting the storm waters of the rural dis- 
tricts N. of the city, and hitherto finding outlet through the over-flooded Tiber 
sewer, and also draining the contiguous parts of the N. section of the city, be- 
tween Boundary N. and 14 streets. The main sewer consists of a 9 ft. conduit 
2 m. long, emptying into the Anacostia, and 5 m. brick and 15 m. pipe tribu- 
tary sewers. 

3. The Tiber District, draining the entire city east of 6th st.W., about 
3,000 acres, embraces 16 m. brick and 30 m. pipe sewers. This is one of the 
largest sewers in the world, named after the Tiber Creek, which finds outlet 

hrough it, and might be called the Cloaca Maxima of Washington, as that was 




wakd's statue of thomas. (See page 39;. 

the great drain of Rome. The main sewer consists of a brick arch 24 to 30 ft 
span, 15 ft. high, and over 2 m. long. It extends through the basin of the val 
ley, and winds around the base of Capitol Hill under the Botanical Garden 
and thence under the Tiber arch (see engraving page 32), into James Creek, 
and thence into the Anacostia east of the arsenal. 

4. The B Street Area, draining all the central and most populous parts of 
the city N. and S. of the Mall, skid between the foot of Capitol Hill and 17th 
street, and embraces 14 m. of brick and 18 m. of pipe sewers. The mainsewei 
1 m. long and 12 ft. in diameter, follows the line of the old canal on B street, 
and discharges into the Potomac at the foot of 17th street. 

5. The Potomac and An icostia Areas, embracing the portions of the city 
contiguous to the two rivers, and finding outlet directly into them through 4 m. 
brick and 20 m. pipe sewers. See map of the city for locality Drainage Areas. 

The sewerage system of Washington, the most complete in the world, is 



34 



SQUARES. 



constantly extended to meet the necessities, 
health and convenience of the city. It now 
embraces 48 m. of brick and 113 m. of pipe 
sewers. 

The sewerage of the city formerly drained 
into the canal, which crossed the most beauti- 
ful and populous portions of the city from the 
Anacostia to the' Potomac S. of the President's 
Grounds, passing along B st. N., and separat- 
ing the beautiful grounds on the Mall from the 
rest of the city. This open mass of filth and 
disease was filled in 1872. 

Squares. — In addition to the 
grounds attached to the public 
buildings, and which will be de- 
scribed in that connection, there 
are a number of beautiful squares 
in various parts of the city. 

Lafayette Square, 7 acres N. of 
the President's House and be- 
tween 15J and 16 J sts. W. The 
broad ave. extending to the N. is 
16 St., terminating at Meridian Hill. 
From the President's Grounds on 
the S. it is separated by a broad 
ave. This square is beautifully 
laid out. in graveled walks with 
seats, and adorned with trees and 
shrubbery of rare varieties. A 
watchman's lodge partly for the 
public stands on the N. side. Two 
|L, bronze vases of antique design, 7 ft. 
high, weighing 1,300 lbs. each, cast 

MR %^^ GV 7.% S 4l^.r^ the Washington Navy Yard 

1873, mounted on granite pedes- 
tals, stand on the E. and W. sides of the square. In the 
centre of this square is Clark Mills's equestrian statue of 
General Andrew Jackson, originally contracted for by the 
Jackson Monument Association, composed of the friends 
and admirers of the subject, who subscribed $12,000 for 
the purpose. 

In 1848, Congress granted to the Association the brass guns and mortars 
captured by the General at Pensacola. In 1850 an additional number 
of brass suns and national trophies, captured in battle, sufficient to complete the 
the statue were donated by Congress, and an appropriation made in 1852 
for the marble pedestal. In 1853 $20,000 were appropriated for the comple- 
tion of the statue, and Congress assumed possession of it. It is colossal, 
weighs 15 tons, total cost, $50,000. The tail and the hind parts of the 
horse are weighted and the figure poised without the aid of rods, as in the 
great siatues of Peter the Great at St. Petersburg, and George III. at London. 
This was the first application of this principle. The statue'was tinveiled amid 
imposing ceremonies Jan. 8, 1853, the anniversary of the General's victory over 
the British at New Orleans. Stephen A. Douglas, orator. 




SQUARES. 



35 








JACKSON EQTJESTK1AN bXA'lUJv 



McPherson Squaee.— On Vermont av., between I and 
K sts. N. and 15th st. W., 1-J- acres, well laid out with 
walks and shrubbery, and adorned with composite iron 
vases and drinking fountains. In the centre is the bronze 



36 SQUARES. 

statue of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson, killed near Atlanta, 
Ga., at the head of the Army of the Tennessee, July 22, 1864, 
erected by the Society of the Army of the Tennessee, Louis 
T. Eobisso, of Ohio, sculptor Robert Wood & Co., of Phila- 
delphia, founders, heroic 14 feet high, horse 12 feet long, 
metal light bronze, being cannon appropriated by Con- 
gress, weight, 7,000 lbs. Cost, $23,500. 

The General is represented in the lull uniform of his rank, with slouch hat, 
holding his field glasses in his right hand, and surveying the field of battle. 
Unveiled Oct. 18, 1876, amid an imposing military pageant, Gen. John A. 
Logan, orator. The superb pedestal, in five massive and appropriately decor. 
ated blocks of Virginia granite, cost #25,000, voted by Congress in 1875. 
It was proposed to place the remains of the General beneath the statue, 
and a vault was constructed for the purpose, but the removal, though approved 
by his family, owing to objections of the people of his native place, was not con- 
summated. 

Farragut Square. — On Connecticut av., between I & K 
Sts. N., and 17th st. W., l£ a., beautifully laid out. 

Here has been erected the colossal bronze Static of 
David Glasgow Farragut, First Admiral of the U. S. Navy, 
ordered by Congress, 1872 ; executed by Mrs. Vinnie 
Ream Hoxie, Washington, 1880. 

It was cast 1880, at the U. S. Navy Yard, Washington, D. C., from the meta 
of the bronze propeller of the flag-ship Ha.'tford, in which the admiral achieved 
his most signal victories. Height of figure, 10 ft.; weight, 1500 lbs. ; cost, 
$20,000. 

The Admiral is represented in full uniform, his foot resting on a block, hold- 
ing in his hand a spy-glass, and earnestly watching the movements of the enemy. 
"i s unveiled April 2$, 1881, amid an imposing naval dis- 
play. Horace Maynard, Tenn.', and D. W. Voorhees, Ind., orators. 

The Pedestal of Maine granite is 20 ft. high, cost $2,000, and rustic base, 
$5,000. Under the pedestal was placed a cupper 1 ox, giving an account of the 
services of the Admiral, history of the statue, an Army and Navy Register, and 
model of the propeller of his flagship, the Hartford. The mortar carriages 
were cast out of the metal of the propeller. 

Scott Square. — At the intersection of Massachusetts and 
Rhode Island avs., and 16th st., due N. of Presidents 
House, 1 acre. Here stands the bronze Statue of Brevet 
Lieutenant General Winfield Scott ordered by Congress, 1867, 
erected 1874, H. K. Brown, of N. Y. ; sculptor, Robert Wood 
& Co., of Philadelphia, founders. Cast out of cannon 
trophies of the valor of the General in Mexico, and 
donated by Congress. Total height, 15 ft.; figure, 10 ft.; 
weight, 12,000 lbs. ; cost, $20,000. 

[See engraving, page 23.] 

The General is represented in the full uniform of his rank, mounted on a 
war charger, at rest, and surveying the field of battle. The pedestal, of Cape 
Ann granite, stands 14 ft. high, is in five large blocks, total height with statue, 
29 ft. The platform is 26 ft. long, 13 ft. wide, and 2 ft. thick, and weighs "19 
tons, 1,197 lbs. ; sub-base, 20 ft. X 10 ft. X 1 ft.; 84 tons; base, 17 ft. X7 ft X 
3 ft., 41 tons ; die, 15 ft. X 5 ft; X 5 ft-, 3^ tons ; and cap, 17 ft. X 7 f t. X 3 ft -> 

37 tons 1,500 lbs. Total weight of pedestal, 320 tons 697 lbs. When quarried, 
weighed 400 tons 621 lbs. These are the largest stones ever successfully quar- 
ried in this country, and among the largest in the world. Great difficulty was 
experienced in their removal to the seacoast, whence they were transported to 
the National Capital by sea. 



SQUARES. 37 

Franklin Square, between 13th and 14th. sts. W. and 
I and K sts. N"., comprises 4 a., and was purchased by the 
Government in 1829 in order to secure control of a fine spring, 
the waters of which, as early as 1832. were conveyed in pipes 
to the President's House and Executive offices. This water 
is still used for drinking purposes at the President's House, 
it being considered better than that from the Potomac. The 
spring lies N". of the fountain, beneath two iron and stone 
covers, built in the arch constructed over the spring. It was 
not until 1851 that this square was laid out. In the centre is 
a small fountain, with a basin 30 ft. in diameter, and a keep- 
er's lodge, with other conveniences, near by. There are also 
several drinking fountains. The square is planted with a 
pleasing variety of ornamental trees and shrubs. 

Judiciary Square, on the original plan of the city, was 
designated reservation No. 9, and was set apart for the then 
contemplated buildings for the. accommodation of the judicial 
branch of the Government.* It comprises 19| a., and ex- 
tends on the S. from the intersection of Louisiana and Indi- 
ana avs., at the head of 4J st. W. to G st. N., and between 
4th and oth sts. W. The S. portion, fronting on 4£ st., is 
occupied by the City Hall. 

On the E. side was erected the immense temporary wooden structure for the 
call given in honor of the Second Inauguration of President Grant, March 4, 
1873. On the W. side, during the rebellion, i86i-'6s, wooden buildings were 
erected for soldiers' hospitals. This square is one of the largest and most at- 
tractive in the city. 

Rawltns Square, on New York av., SW. of the Depart- 
ment of State, 11 a., is beautifully laid out, with walks, 
trees, evergreens, and shrubbery, and rustic fountains. 

In 1874 was erected there the heroic bronze statue of Brigadier General 
yohn A. Rawlins, of Illinois, Adjutant General and chief of staff to General 
Grant, i864-'6s. and Secretary of War, 1869, ordered by Congress in 1872, exe- 
cuted by J. Bailey, of Pennsylvania, 1873, cast by Robert Wood & Co., of 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, cost $10,000, 8 ft. in height, and weighs 1,400 lbs. 
The Virginia granite pedestal, 12 ft. high, cost $2,500. 

Mount Vernon Place, at the intersection of Massachu- 
setts and New York avs. and K and 8th sts. NW., till 1871, 
was occupied on the E. half by the Northern Market. It 
is beautifully laid out and planted. In the centre is a 
raised circular space, containing a bronze fountain. 

Triangles. — At the intersection of the avenues and streets 
| are small spaces designated Triangular Reservations. Many 
of these E. and W. of the Capitol are planted with trees and 
shrubs, and are further beautified with small fountains. 

Birds. — A flock of imported sparrows was set at liberty in the public grounds in 
1871, for the destruction of insects. Each year new cages are placed in the trees 
for the accommodation of their increased numbers. These useful birds are fed reg- 
ularlv every morning during the winter in Franklin, Lafayette, and other squares. 



38 CIRCLES. 

Green Square, at the intersection of Massachusetts and 
Maryland avs., NE. of the Capitol. 3£ a., beautifully laid 
out. Here stands the colossal equestrian bronze statue of Ma- 
jor General Nathaniel Greene, of the Revolutionary Army, H. 
K. Brown, sculptor. Erected 1877, under act of Congress, 
June 23, 1874, in conformity with a resolution of Congress. 
August 8, 1786, Robert Wood & Co.. Philadelphia, found- 
ers. Original appropriation, $40,000. October, 1875, $10- 
000 additional to include pedestal. 

The General is in the uniform of an officer of the Continental army. He 
points forward, and is in the act of giving orders to an aid on the field of bat- 
tle. The animal is about to step off; the near hind foot rests on a cannon ball, 
and preserves the equilibrium. Total height, 1334 ft,, length, 14 ft., weight 
6000 lbs., cost of casting $10,000. The pedestal, composed of three massive 
blocks of New England granite, is 20 ft. high, making the total height of the 
statue 33% ft. 

Lincoln Square. — On East Capitol st., 1 m. E. of the 
Capitol, 6£ acres beautifully laid out. Here stands the 
bronze group entitled Emancipation, representing Abraham 
Lincoln, the 16th President of the U. S., standing by a 
monolith, and holding in his right hand the proclamation 
of freedom. A slave kneeling at his feet, with manacles 
broken, is about to rise. On his left is the trunk of a tree 
with lash and manacles strewn about. Thomas Ball, of 
, sculptor, 1874; Ferd. Miller, jun., Munich, 1875. foun- 
der. 12 ft. high ; weight 3,000 lbs., cost, $17,000. 

Erected by the Western Sanitary Commission of St. Louis, Mo., out of the 
funds contributed solely by emancipated citizens of the United States, declared 
free by the proclamation January i, 1863. The first contribution, $5.00, was 
made by Charlotte Scott, a freedwoman of Virginia, being her first earnings in 
freedom, and consecrated by her suggestion and request on the day she heard 
of President Lincoln's death, to build a monument to his memory. Unveiled 
April 14, 1876, the anniversary of his assassination, in the presence of the Presi- 
dent of the U. S., cabinet and foreign ministers, and a vast concourse of colored 
and white citizens. Frederick Douglass, orator. The pedestal of Virginia gran- 
ite, 10 ft. high, cost, $3,000, was voted by Congress. 

It was in this square, in the proposed original embellishment of the Capital, that 
the Historic Column was to be built, to serve alsoasa mile or itinerary column, 
from which all geographical distances in the United States were to be calculated. 

Stanton Place lies NE. of the Capitol, at the intersex 
tion of Maryland and Massachusetts avs., and comprises 3£ a. 

A short distance S. of the Capitol, at the convergence of 
New Jersey, South Carolina, and North Carolina avs., is a 
large tract, originally laid out as Reservation N/o. 17. It 
contains 23J a., or, on the first maps, 21 a., and was set off 
as the site for the Town House or City Hall, but has never 
since been considered in that connection. It is still with- 
out improvement, though the subject has been called to the 
attention of Congress. 

There are other squares in the SE. parts of the city vacant 
and unimproved. 



ORNAMENTAL GARDENING. 



o9 



Circles. — The space at the intersections of the more im- 
portant avenues forms what are termed circles. 
Washington Circle, 23d st. W., at the intersection of 

Pennsylvania and New 
Hampshire avs., contains 
the Equestrian Statue of 
General George Washington, 
by Clark Mills, ordered by 
Congress in 1853. cost $50- 
000, cast out of guns do- 
nated by Congress. 

it represents Washington at the 
crisis of the Battle of Princeton, the 
horse shrinking before the storm of 
shot and the din of conflict, while the 
rider preserves that equanimity of 
bearing native to his great character. 

The Thomas Circle (Circle of 
Victory), at the intersection of 
Massachusetts and Vermont avs., 
and 14th St. NW. Here is the bronze 
statue oj Maj. Gen. George H. 
Thomas, contracted for by the 
Society of the Army of the Cumber- 
land, 1874, with J. Q. A. Ward, 
sculptor, for $40,000, Bureau Broth- 
ers & Heaton, of Philadelphia, 
founders^ $10,000, from new ma- 
terials, heroic height, 16 ft., weight 
7500 lbs. 

Unveiled November 19, 1879, amid 
a grand military and civic pageant, 
Hon. Stanley Matthews, orator. 
The hymn 0/ Victory, words by 
Herbert A. Preston, music by J. 
Max Mueller, was executed by 100 
male voices and accompaniment of 
the U. S. Marine Band, 60 pieces, a 
full drum corps, and battery of Ar- 
tillery. 

Bailey's Statue of Rawlins (Page 37). 

The General is represented in the field dress of a Major General of the U. S. 
Army, suddenly reining his horse to observe the field of battle. The statue 
faces south, the line of vision being directed towards the General's native hills 
of Virginia. Pedestal erected by Congress, $25,000, Virginia granite, is of 
beautiful design, elliptical shape, 16 ft. high, with bronze tablets, representing 
the badge of the Society of the Army of the Cumberland. Four bronze lamp 
posts designed by General Thomas L. Casey, Engineer Public Buildings and 
Grounds, cast by Robert Wood & Co., Philadelphia, 1877, cost $1,000 each, 12 
ft. high, with three-sided base and three ornamental shafts with surmounting 
centre and three bracketed lanterns surrounding it. On this site a salute of 
800 guns was fired in commemoration of the fall of Petersburg and Richmond, 
April 3, 1865, and a few days later 500 guns in honor of the surrender of Gen« 
eral Lee's army. 

Ornamental Gardening.— In 1851 A. J. Downing, the cele- 
brated landscape gardener, was employed by the Government 




40 engineer's office. 

to lay out the public parks and reservations. The grounds 
of the President's House were to be extended to the line of 
the Washington Canal, now B st. JN"., and to be laid out with 
a circular parade-ground, lined with trees in the centre. A 
carriageway, by means of a suspension bridge, was to con- 
nect the S. Park of those grounds with the Mall, near the 
Washington Monument. A drive was to follow the Mall to 
the Capitol. The Mall itself was to be beautifully adorned 
with lawn?, walks, drives, trees, and shrubbery. Lafayette, 
Franklin, and the other squares were to be laid out by the 
same person. The admirable schemes of improvement con- 
templated by this truly artistic gardener were suddenly in- 
terrupted by his death in 1852. During the single year of 
his service he prepared a general plan for the laying out and 
beautifying of the publicgrounds. This, in a great measure, 
has been carried out by his successors. In the Smithsonian 
Grounds may be seen a beautiful Vase, erected by the Amer- 
ican Pomological Society to the memory of Downing. A 
description of this tribute to his genius will be found in its 
appropriate place. 

Previous to this the attempts at the appropriate laying out 
and planting of the public parks were both crude and spas- 
modic. In 1826, more than a quarter of a century after the 
Government had made the city its permanent seat, there 
were no public walks, save the dusty avenues. In 1831 the 
grounds around the Capitol and President's House were still 
in the unkempt condition of nature unadorned. In 1832 the 
old Treasury Building was enclosed. The next year the 
pedestal wall and railing were placed in front of the Park of 
the President's House, and the S. Park, near the mansion, was 
planted with trees. In 1834 the foot and carriageway were 
completed. In 1835 Lafayette Square was improved and 
planted, and supplied with lamps. In 1837 the W. Park of 
the Capitol Grounds was extended to take in part of the Mall 
from the circular road around the building to 1st st. W., mak- 
ing an addition of 8 a. The park was walled in and the grounds 
laid out in walks and supplied with fountains. In the same 
3'ear the President's Grounds were in more creditable condi- 
tion. In the S. park, towards the then line of the canal, it was 
proposed to lay out an extensive fish-pond, to supply the Presi- 
dent's table with fish. The public grounds, an eyesore to 
the community and a reflection upon the tase and liberality 
of Congress, were again neglected. 

Office, Engineer in Ohai'ge. — In 1871 a system of improvernemts was 
inaugurated by Major O. E. Babco^k, Corps of Engineers, U. S. A., in charge of 
Public Buildings, Grounds, and Works. Congress annually appropriates from 
8100,000 to $joo,ooo, to be expended under the Engineer's office, for salari-«, 



BOTANICAL GARDEN. 41 

the improvement and care of the public grounds not otherwise specially assigned; 
repairs and refurnishing the President's House, green-houses, and for fuel ; light- 
ing the Capitol, President's House, and public grounds ; and construction and re- 
pairs of all bridges on the Potomac and Anacostia, and repairing and extension of 
Government water-pipes. 

Propagating" Garden. — The Government Propagating- Gar- 
den, originally on Missouri av., between 3d and 4J sts. W., 
is beautifully situated on the banks of the Potomac, S. of the 
Washington Monument. The garden covers 8 a. The forc- 
ing houses are supplied with apparatus for the propagation 
and growth of plants of the rarest species and varieties. In 
1872, from the old garden, upwards of 20,000 papers of flower 
seeds were collected and cured. These, with surplus plants, 
sometimes numbering upwards of 10,000, consisting of roses, 
chrysanthemums, verbenas, geraniums, begonias, and other 
hot-house annuals and shrubs propagated at these gardens 
were distributed to members of Congress, and others notified 
by circular letter that such stock was ready. A Nursery is 
connected with the garden, in which trees and shrubs are 
grown for the supptyof the public parks. 



Copyright, 1874: DeB. B. Keim. 

BOTANICAL GARDEN AND GREEN-HOUSE. 

Botanical Garden. — Open daily. 9 a. w. to 6 p. rn.— This 
instructive place of public resort is situated at the foot of Capi- 
tol Hill, extending from 1st to 3d sts. W., and between Penn- 
sylvania and Maryland avs. There are two main entrances for 
pedestrians, one opposite the main central W. gate of the Cap- 
itol Park and the other on 3d St., opposite the E. end of the 
Drive. Each entrance consists of four marble and brick gate 
piers, with iron gates. No wheeled vehicles are permitted in 
the garden. The avenues diverging from the W. Capitol Park 
give the garden a wedge-shape, the narrower end facing the 
W. front of the Capitol. It comprises 10 a., surrounded by 



42 BOTANICAL GARDEN. 

a low, brick wall, with stone coping and iron railing, and is 
laid ont in walks, lawns, and flower-beds. N. of the Main 
Conservatory is a large fountain, with 9 main jets and a mar- 
ble basin 93 ft. in diameter. The fountain is supplied from 
the Acqueduct, and throws its highest stream to an altitude 
of 65 ft. This fountain in full play presents a beautiful ef- 
fect, especially when reflecting the rays of the sun. S. of 
the Conservator} 7- is a smaller fountain, with a granite basin. 
During the summer the hardiest plants, in boxes, are ranged 
on either side of the main walk, and contribute materially to 
the beauty of the garden. 

The Main Conservator]), commenced in 1867 from designs 
by Mr. Clark, Architect of the Capitol, consists of a central 
dome and two wings. The base is of marble and the super- 
structure iron. The entire length is 300 ft., greatest width 
60 ft., height of dome 40 ft., and wings 25 ft. The dome is 
supported on a brick column, which answers the double pur- 
pose of being a chimney also. Around this column winds an 
iron, spiral staircase, which leads to a cupola surrounded by 
a balustrade. From this point the finest view of the W. front 
of the Capitol may be obtained. The key is kept by the Su- 
perintendent. There are 10 smaller Conservatories, of brick 
and wood, in one of which is a Lecture or Botanical Class- 
room, with accommodations for 100 students. The latter fea- 
ture contemplates the appointment of a Professor of Botany 
by the colleges of the capital to hold lectures here. All the 
conservatories are heated by hot water, conducted in iron 
pipes, supplied from 5 boilers. Three of the boilers are in the 
vaults under the pavement of the dome of the Main Conser- 
vatory. The object of the garden is education and the dis- 
tribution of rare plants. For the latter purpose there are 4 
conservatories devoted to propagation. All seeds are saved. 
The garden is under the control of the Joint Committee of 
Congress on the Library. Each member of Congress, on ap- 
plying to the chairman of the committee for plants or seeds, 
is supplied, if practicable. Boquets are frequently obtained 
in the same way. 

Botanical Collection. — The first collection of plants in 
this National Conservatory was brought to the United States 
by the Exploring Expedition to the Southern Hemisphere, 
1838-'42, commanded by Captain (Bear Admiral) Charles 
Wilkes. The collection was first deposited in the Patent 
Office, but in 1850 was removed to the Botanical Garden. 
Some of the plants are still living, and a large share of the 
present collection are the descendants of those brought back 
by the Wilkes Expedition. A few have furnished represent- 
atives for many of the principal conservatories of the United 
States and Europe. 



BOTANICAL GARDEN. 43 

The disposition of the collection is according to a geograph- 
ical distribution. The strictly tropical plants occupy the cen- 
tre Conservatory, and those of a semi-tropical nature, requir- 
ing protection and lying towards the N. pole, are placed in 
the W. range and wing; and all indigenous to countries 
lying towards the S. pole are in the E. range and wing. 

The Centre Building or Rotunda, temperature 80°, contains 
a fine variety of the majestic palms, called by Martins the 
princes of vegetation, and of which there are 300 kinds, the 
most prominent being here represented. The most interest- 
ing in the collection is the palm tree of Scripture, familiarly 
known as the date palm. Jericho, the City of Palms, was 
so called from the numbers of this tree growing in its vicin- 
ity. It was recommended to be used by the Jews in the 
Feast of Tabernacles. In Arabia, Egypt, and Persia it sup- 
plies almost every want of the inhabitants. The fruit is 
used for food, the leaves for shelter, the wood for fuel, and 
the sap for spirituous liquor. It matures in 10 years and 
then fruits for centuries, bearing from 1 to 300 cwt. at a 
time. Among the Arabs the pollen dust is preserved from 
year to year, and at the season of impregnation of the pistils 
or female flowers a feast called "Marriage of the Palms" is 
held. It is a singular historical fact, that the date palm of 
Egypt bore no fruit in the year 1800, owing to the presence 
of the French army in the country, which prevented the an- 
nual marriage feast. 

Among the other plants in this portion of the Conservatory 
are the fan, royal, ratan, sago of Japan and China, Panama 
nat, oil, wine, coco de Chili, sugar, and cradle palms; the 
East India bamboo ; the tree fern, from New Zealand ; as- 
crapea, from Madagascar ; screw pine of Australia, with its 
cork-screw leaves and roots in mid air; the cinnamon of 
Ceylon ; maiden's hair fern ; mango, a delicious fruit of the 
West Indies ; and banana, that most prolific of all plants ; 
the great stag and elkhorn ferns from Australia, (very fine 
specimens,) and the dumb cane of South America. The sap 
of the root of the latter will take away the power of speech. 
Humboldt, during his explorations in South America, was 
eight days speechless from tasting it. The outer circle of 
the rotunda is devoted to the smaller tropical plants. 

The E. range, temperature 50°, and wing, 40°, are de- 
voted more particularly to the plants of the South Sea Islands, 
Brazil, Cape of Good Hope, Australia, and New Holland. 
The principal specimens are the tree fern of New Zealand ; 
the aloe and the Caffre bread tree from the Cape of Good 
Hope ; the India rubber, the passion flower, the caladium, of 
Brazil; Norfolk Island pine of Australia, one of the most 



44 BOTANICAL GARDEN. 

beautiful and largest-growing trees in the world; the queen 
plant, or bird of paradise flower, from its resemblance to the 
plume of that bird ; the tutui, or candle-uut tree, from the 
Society Islands, the nut being 1 used by the natives for lighting 
their huts; the coii'ce plant, and several varieties of cactus. 

To the W. range and wing, temperature same as E., the 
plants of China and Japan, the East and West Indies, and 
Mexico are assigned. The most notable plants here are the 
cycadacese, of the East Indies, the largest in the country ; 
the four-century plant ; the camellia japonica, or Japan rose ; 
the lovely lily of Cuba ; the historic papyrus aniiquorum, or 
paper plant, of Egypt; the tallow and leechee trees of 
China; the guava, a delightful fruit of the West Indies; the 
vanilla of Mexico, the species which furnishes the aromatic 
bean ; the black pepper from the East Indies ; the sugar cane, 
the cheramoycr, or custard apple, and cassava of the West 
Indies; the sensitive and the humble plants; the American 
aloe, or century plant, of Mexico ; the camphor tree from 
Japan ; the tea plant ; the papay, an Oriental tree, which has 
the property of rendering the toughest meat tender ; a plant 
of the adansonia digitata, or monkey bread, which grows on 
the banks of the Senegal, and reaches the enormous circum- 
ference of 100 ft. They are supposed to attain the age of 
5,000 years. They, have many uses. Humboldt pronounces 
them the oldest organic monuments of our planet. There is 
also a specimen of the carob tree of Palestine, sometimes 
called St. John's bread. The pulp around the seed is sup- 
posed to have been the wild honey upon which St. John 
fed in the wilderness. There are other interesting speci- 
mens of the vegetable kingdom, including a pleasing variety 
of climbing plants. The arrangement of the exotics in the 
Central Conservatory presents the appearance of a miniature 
tropical forest, with its luxuriant growth of tree and vine. 
Until recently the Conservatory was in possession of a speci- 
men of the bohan upas tree, of which such fabulous stories 
have been told. Each wing of the Conservatory is supplied 
with a fountain. In the W. range is a vase, brought from 
St. Augustine, Florida, and taken from the first house built 
on the North American continent within the present limits 
of the United States. A fine specimen of maiden's hair fern 
grows in the vase. 

The outside conservatories are generally used for propaga- 
tion. One, however, is specially devoted to camellia japo- 
nica, and another to that curious growth, the orchids or air 
plants. The botanical collection received some valuable con- 
tributions from the expedition of Commodore Perry to Japan. 
The supply is kept up by propagation and purchase, and at 



LIGHTING OF THE CITY. 45 

rare intervals by scientific or exploring expeditions of the 
United States. 

Superintendents of the Botanical Garden. — 1850-1852, W. 
D. Breckenridge ; 1852, William R. Smith. 

History. — The design of the projectors of the city contem- 
plated the location of a botanical garden upon one of the 
extensive reservations which had been set apart for public 
purposes. In 1798 there was considerable discussion as to its 
location. A deputation waited upon the Commissioners of the 
city and urged the S. Park of the President's Grounds, but as 
the object was the enjoyment of the public, it was seen fit to 
establish it in its present desirable situation near the Capitol. 
The topography of the ground, however, was most uninvit- 
ing. The Tiber flowed across one end of it, and most of it 
was low and marshy, and exposed to the ebb and flow of the 
tides in the Potomac. There is a tradition that it was the 
early execution ground of the city, and that no less than five 
criminals were hanged there. In 1822 the Botanical Society 
of Washington was incorporated \>y Congress. The society, 
prior to its incorporation, through the individual efforts of 
those interested in botanical researches and investigations in 
the District of Columbia, had prepared a full list of plants, 
and as early as 1817 had arranged them according to the Lin- 
naean classification and the more fashionable arrangment of 
Jnssieu. The grounds assigned to the society were the same 
now used by Congress for that purpose. Under the auspices 
of the society the marshy portions were dredged and con- 
verted into a small lake, into which the tide continued to ebb 
and flow. A few of the native trees were planted, consisting 
of fine oaks, buttonwoods, gums and persimmons. The 
only vestige remaining of these primitive efforts at a botan- 
ical garden are two post oaks. After the discontinuance of 
the society the garden was used as a deposit for rubbish. In 
1850 the representative management was assigned to the 
Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. The first 
buildings were then erected, and the office of Superintendent 
created. This post was first filled by W. D. Breckenridge, 
who had been horticulturist and botanist to the Wilkes Ex- 
pedition. A systematic course of improvement was inaugu- 
rated out of the annual appropriations by Congress, begin- 
ning with the filling of the entire grounds to a depth of 5 to 
6 ft. 

Lighting of the City. — The lighting of the city is entirely 
by private companies. The first of these was incorporated in 
1848. In that year Congress made an appropriation of $2,000 



46 



STATUES. 



for paying the Washington Gas Company for lighting the 
Capitol and Capitol Grounds, to include fixtures ; for laying 
pipes from the main pipe at the Capitol to the foot of 15th st. 
W., on both sides of Pennsylvania av., and for 100 lamp- 
posts and lamps and other necessary "fixtures. This was the 
first use of gas in the city. In the same year gas was also 
first introduced into the President's House. It has since 
grown into general use. The Government provides for the 
lighting of all public buildings and grounds, and the District 
for avs. and sts. 

Statues.— The statues in the public parks contribute 
greatly to the adornment of the capital. A description of 
each will be found with the grounds in which placed. 




The Washington Aqueduct (Jarvisj. 

Water Supply.— The water of the city is carried from the 
Great Falls of the Potomac, by the Aqueduct, a distance of 
12 m., to a Distributing Reservoir, 2 m. from Kock Creek and 
U m . from the Capitol. The daily supply is 30 million galls, 
and consumption 17 million galls., or 127 galls, to each per- 
son—the largest of any city in the world. The full capacity 
of the Aqueduct is 80 million galls. A description of this 
remarkable work will be found in another part of this Hand- 
book. 

In the effluent screen well at the distributing reservoir are 
laid four 48-in. mouth-pieces for the supply of the city. Three 
o£ the^e are reduced in the pipe-vault to 36-in., 30-m., and 
12-in. Leaving the vault these three mains run parallel across 
the country to a small stream known as Foundry Branch. 



WATER SUPPLY. 



47 



Near this point they strike the road along' the Chesapeake 
and Ohio Canal, which they follow through Bridge and Aque- 
duct sts., Georgetown, to Rock Creek, a distance of 2 m. On 
the way the 30 and 12-in. mains cross College Pond, over an 
arch of 120 ft. span, composed of two 30-in. pipes. The 36-in. 
main is laid in the bottom of the creek. At Rock Creek two 
of the three mains are joined, so that the water is conveyed 
through two 48-in. pipes, which form an arch of 200 ft. span 
across that stream. These arches also sustain a roadway for 
general traffic between the cities of Washington and 
Georgetown (see aqueduct, page 217). Crossing the aque- 
duct bridge at the E. abutment, the three mains are re- 
sumed and thence the vast water supply for the public 
and private buildings and fountains of the Capital is dis- 
tributed by the following larger conduits : 

The jb-itu h main along 
Pennsylvania av. to L st. 
N., thence on L st. to 
New Jersey av. 3 72-528 m. 

The 30-inch main along 
Pa. av. to K st. N., along 
K to Massachusetts av. , 
along Mass. av. to New 
Jersey av., along N. J. av. 
to B st. N., and L bet. N. 
J. and Mass. avs. 3 4-5 m. 

The 12-inch main along 
Pa. av. to 8th st. E., along 
8th st. E. to the Navy 
Yard, with a branch line 
from Pa. av. along 24th st. 
W. to the Observatory ; 
another from 8th st. W. 
bet. Pa. av. and F. st. N., 
thence along F. st. N. to 
7th st. W., along 7th st. to 
G st. N.; another starting 
at Mass. av., along 4th st. 
W. to D. st. N., along D. 
st. to 4^ st. W., along 4% 
st. to the Arsenal ; another 
starting at Pa. av., along 
14th st. W. to B. st. S. 
Total of main and branch- 
es, 9 3-5 m. 




The 20-inch main along 
B. st, S. at 10th st. W., to 



BARTHOLDI FOUNTAIN (THEILKUHlJ. 

(See Page 48). 
6th st. W., along 6th st! to Maine av., along Maine av. to Pa. av., from Pa. av. 
to B. st. N., along B st., bet. N. J. av. and 1st st. E., and on B st. bet. 1st st. 
E. and nth st. E., 1 m. 



The 10-inch main along 7th st. W. from G. st. N. to Mass. av., J^ m. 
The 8-inch main along Pa. av. from 2d to 15th st. W., 1 1 8 m. 



xtf THE 11ARBUH. 

In the original plan of the city it was proposed to utilize the Tiber Creek, 
the elevation ot" the source of which was 237 ft. above tide. Its water was to 
supply the eastern part of the city and the Capitol, thence to form a cascade 
50 ft. wide 20 ft. fall into a reservoir below, thence in three falls across the west 
park of the Capitol, the Botanical Garden and the Mall. In 1832 the water of 
Smith' s Spring, 2^ m. north of the Capitol, 30 ft. above its base and near the 
Howard University, was conducted into the Capitol building and fed the foun- 
tain in the west terrace. In 1836 Congress purchased this spring and one acre 
of land. In 1837 its waters were conducted into the Treasury Department, and 
later into the general Post Office In 1832 the spring in Franklin Square sup- 
plied the President's House and "public offices." In late years the aqueduct 
water has also been introduced. Other springs were also utilized to supply 
contiguous portions of the city. These have since been superseded from the 
aqueduct. Smaller supply pipes also extend through intermediate portions of 
the city. 

The total length of water mains in the District of Columbia, 1881, was 175 
miles, viz.: laid by the United States, 30, 12, 6 and 4 inch, 18 m.; by the Dis- 
trict of Columbia, 36, 30 and 20 inch., 6 m.; by the late Corporation of Wash- 
ington, 6 and 4 in., 117 m.; by the Water Department since organization to 
1881, 141 m. The supply is controlled by upwards of 800 large stop-cocks. 
There are upwards of 825 fire plugs, 700 taps, numerous fountains, great and 
small, hydrants, etc., and 20.000 water takers. There is a high service reser- 
voir for the more elevated portions of Georgetown (see page 212); also ^.stand- 
pipe of limited capacity on the hill N. of 16th st. W. In 1881 there were 438 
pumps in use in the District, and new ones being added against possible 
necessities. 

By statute, the water rates are limited to the cost of laying new pipes, keep- 
ing the old ones, in repair and current expenses of administration, but not for 
revenue. The rates are regulated by stories and front feet, viz.: per annum, 2 
stories with front width 16 ft. or less, $3.00 ; each additional story, $1.00 ; addi- 
tional front foot, 25 c. There are also special business and miscellaneous rates. 
Receipts about $225,000. Disbursements about the same. 

Fountains. — There are many fine fountains in the city. 
The Bariholdi (Frederic Augustus, a French sculptor, pupil 
of Ary Scheffer) Fountain, bronze, exhibited at the U. S. 
Centennial Exposition, 1876. purchased bv Congress, 1877, 
$6,000 ; 25 ft, high, and stands in the Botanical Garden. 

The base consists of three turtles ; the Dowl, fourteen feet in diameter, rests 
on three female figures representing light and water, " the twin goddesses of 
cities.'' Above are dolphins, a domical covering, and crown. Weight, 15,000 
lbs.; water thrown from turtles, dolphins and crown, total, nine outlets. The 
water dripping down is illuminated by 12 lamps, lit by electricity. The mar- 
ble basin, 90 ft. in diameter, ordered by Congress, 1878, $3,000. Plays in 
kill on days in the American calendar to be commemorated, and holidays. 

There is a fine fountain on the plaza north of the Treas- 
ury Department, consisting of an immense granite urn, 
1 he tassa of which measures 16 ft. in diameter. 

The first public fountain erected in 1810, was by the mayoralty. 

The Harbor. — In front of Washington the Potomac, re- 
leased from the hills above Georgetown, expands into a broad 
lake-like river. 

The Potomac River rises in the Alleghany Mountains, and 
after a course of 400 m. empties into the Chesapeake Bay. 
At its confluence with the bay it is 7£ m. wide, and in front 



THE HARBOR. 49 

of Washington 1^ in., with 18 ft. of water. The Anacostia 
at its mouth is nearly as wide as the main stream, and is 
fully as deep. Salt water reaches to within 50 m. of the city. 
The average tide at the STavy Yard is 3 ft. 

The Harbo'} of Washington consists of a channel extending 
from Greenleuf 's or Arsenal Point, the upper point at th£ 
junction of the Anacostia and Potomac, to the foot of 17th 
st. W., a distance of f m., and also a small channel in the 
Anacostia. 

The Potomac Channel has an average width of 400 ft. up 
to Maryland av. or Long Bridge, between the depths of 6 ft. 
at mean low water, and narrows to 250 ft. at the Arsenal 
wharf . The greatest depth to the lower wharves at*6th st. 
S W. is 11 ft., and to Maryland av. 8 ft. Above Long Bridge 
this channel gradually shoals, and is lost in the flats off 
17th st. 

The Anacostia Channel has an average width of 350 ft. ? 
between the depths of 6 ft. on either side, and narrows to 
250 ft. The greatest depth to the ISTavy Yard is 14 ft., and 
1 m. above is but 6 ft. 

The Harbor of Georgetown consists of a depression in the 
bed of the Potomac, lying between the town front on the left 
bank and -> small portion of the right or Virginia bank and 
Analostan Island, near the same bank. This harbor has an 
average width of 800 ft., with an average depth of 25 ft. at 
mean low water. The depth over the bar in the main chan- 
nel of the Potomac just below this harbor is but 10 ft. at 
mean low water. This depth has been increased to 15 ft. by 
dredging. 

The Main Channel, starting at the harbor of Georgetown, 
runs between Analostan Island andEasby's Point, the S. end 
of 27th st. W., along the bank of the river to the W". end of 
Long Bridge, and thence to Geisborough, or the lower point 
of the mouth of the Anacostia. Off this it joins the channel 
of the Anacostia and that from the Potomac front of Wash- 
ington. Here the three unite, and form the broad channel, 
which extends clown the main river. The length of the main 
channel from the canal aqueduct at Georgetown to deep 
water at Geisborough Point is 4| m. The depth at mean 
high water at the shoalest place in the Potomac below Wash- 
ington is 22 ft. Between the main channel of the Potomac 
and the shore lying between 17th and 27th sts. W. lies an 
expansive marsh of about 1,000 a., known as the flats, and 
mostly covered with a rank growth of water-grass. One third 
is clear at low water, and the remainder is covered from 1 to 
4 ft. It is stated by the engineers who have made a survey 
4 



50 COMMERCE. 

that these deposits increase yearly as the shores above are 
cleared of forest. 

Wharves and Canal.— The wharves of the city along the banks of the 
Potomac, at the foot of 17th st. W., are used by wood and sand craft; 7th st. 
W., by steamboats and schooners; and on the Anacostia, W. of the Navy-yard, 
for wood, lumber, coal, stone, sand, and other articles brought to the Washing- 
toiynarket. During the building of the city, the Acquia Creek stone for the 
Capitol was landed on the banks of the Tiber, about where the Potomac Gar- 
den now stands. The stream was deepened, so that with the aid of the tide flat 
boats could ascend. 

For the convenience of the wood, coal, and sand-boats, and other small craft 
desiined for the city, James Creeh, which enters the Anacostia immediately E. 
of Barrack* , in 1875 was dredged to a depth of 8 ft. at low-water mark, and 
widened to 60 ft. as far as Virginia av. at its intersection with S. Capitol st. 
The old Washington Canal, which connected the Anacostia at the foot of 2d 
St. E. with the Potomac at the foot of 17th st. W. commenced in 1791 and fin- 
ished in 1837, nas been filled, and a covered sewer built in its place. 

Commerce. — The improving the navigation 0/ the Potofnac and the 
construction of a canal to the head-waters of the Ohio, were enterprises co- 
eval with the founding of the capital. Alexandria, 7 m. below, already en- 
joyed a commerce with the cities and towns on the Chesapeake, along the Atlan- 
tic coast, and the ports of foreign lands. Georgetown, just nbove, also had a 
local trade of some importance. The introduction of steam on the Potomac 
took place shortly after its satisfactory application as a motive power in navi- 
gation. The VVashington, Alexandria, and Baltimore Steam-packet Company, 
an earlier corporation, was succeeded by the Washington, Alexandria, and 
Georgetown Steam-packet Company, incorporated in 1829. The facilities of 
t?-avel on the river and bay, and to points N. by the sea, by sail and steam, 
have at different times since been largely augmented. Merchant vessels belong- 
ing to the customs district of Georgetown, which includes Washington — 1872, 
sail 78,2,081 tons; steam 25, 5,084^ tons; unrigged 309, 18,490^: total 412, 
25,656 tons. There is an extensive home trade on the Potomac River and 
Chesapeake Bay, and by Sea, with the cities on the Atlantic seaboard. The 
direct foreign trade is small, all imported goods being received through other 
ports. 

Harbor Improvement. — In 1872 a board of officers was appointed, under 
an act of Congress, with a view to the tmproveme7it of the channel 0/ the river 
and the water fronts of Washington and Georgetown for commercial purposes, 
and the reclamation of the poisonous marsh opposite the city. The board re- 
ported three plans, that most favored proposing but one channel, of sufficient 
width and depth for all purposes ; a direct continuation ot the river at George- 
town, to run along the right bank of the river as far down as Gravelly Point, 
and thence directly toward Geisborough Point on the left bank, joining the 
deep channel of the river at that point, following nearly the present main chan- 
nel of the river, and affording a frontage of 7 m. The channel, 23 feet deep, 
would be of sufficient width to enable the largest vessels to move with ease and 
free from danger of grounding, and also to discharge the heaviest freshets The 
great freshet of about 1852 swelled the river at the old Chain Bridge, just below 
the Little Falls, to a height of 43 feet above mean high water; at the Aqueduct 
Bridge, 10 ft. ; at the Arsenal, about 3 4-5 m. below, 4% ft. ; and at Alexandria, 
about 3^ m. still lower down, 2J4 ft. The width of channel adopted for the 
Anacostia is 600 ft., with a depth of 23 ft. at mean low water at the Navy Yard 
Bridge. For the transhipment of coal from the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 
in front of Georgetown, it is proposed to erect suitable cocks and piers, to be 
continued by lines of bulkhead, including piers, the whole commencing at the 
NE. corner of High and Water sts., Georgetown, and extending along the 
entire Washington front on the Potomac and Anacostia to the outer end or the 
N. abutment of Anacostia Bridge. 

With these improvements Long Bridge would be reconstructed, with spans of 
not less than 200 ft., and a pivot-draw, with two openings of not less than 160 ft. 
clear in each, the bridge to be constructed for railroad and ordinary travel. The 
estimated co=t of the whole work is $6,000,000; or less expensive materials, 
$4,000,000. Land reclaimed, 1023 a. • time to complete, 4 yr-.. 



52 BRIDGES. 

It is proposed to remove the Naval Observatory, and use 
the earth for filling. 

Extension of the Oity. — Long Bridge, to the water front, to 
be designated Railroad Avenue, would be laid out in a road- 
way 200 ft. wide, with space for rail-tracks in the centre and 
a carriageway on either side. The irregular space between 
Maryland av. continued to the water, Railroad av., and the 
bulkhead, including streets, 44 a., with 4 piers, to be re- 
served for railroad freight depots and workshops. The Mall 
would be extended W. to proposed Potomac av., would give 
an aggregate length of 2 T ^ m., and would form a magnifi- 
cent triple avenue, sweeping away in front of the W. fa- 
cade of the Capitol, by the side of which would tower the 
Washington Monument, and along which could be erected 
statues and monuments to the memory of the great men of 
the Republic. The general system of streets and avenues 
would be extended over the reclaimed ground outside of the 
Government reservations, 454 a., with the exception of Rail- 
road av., now Long Bridge and Potomac av., 200 ft. wide, to 
run the entire length inside the bulkhead. The street, 100 ft. 
wide inside the bulkheads, on the Anacostia front, called by 
the name of that stream, would run from the Arsenal to the 
Navy-yard. 

Bridges. — There are no fine bridges across the Potomac or 
Anacostia connecting Washington with the opposite shore. 
At the beginning of the present century there were four 
bridges : one across the Potomac into Virginia, and three 
across the Anacostia ; all owned by private companies. There 
, are now the Long Bridge across the Potomac, which is also 
used for a railway, and the Navy Yard and Benning's, or the 
Upper Bridge, across the Anacostia. The Baltimore and 
Potomac Railroad Bridge also crosses the Anacostia above 
the Navy-yard. 

In 1809 a pile bridge, 1 m. long, with a draw on the E. and 
W. ends, was in use across the Potomac. The SW. end was 
destroyed in 1814, by order of the Government, during the 
presence of a foreign enemy. It was restored in 1816. In 
1832 the Government purchased it and built a new one, which 
was destroyed by ice in 1836. It was restored in 1838. In 
1850 it was proposed to build an iron or stone arched bridge, 
but after plans were submitted the matter dropped. The 
railroad portion of the present Potomac bridge was built in 
1872. The entire structure consists of a way for vehicles 
and pedestrians and for the track of the Washington and 
Alexandria Railroad. Near the Washington end is a small 
draw over the E . channel. From this point a causeway crosses 



54 



BRIDGES. 



vhe,marshes of the river to the Virginia channel, which is sur- 
mounted by a wooden structure, with a draw sufficient to ad- 
mit of the passage of the largest vessels. It was by this bridge 
that most of the vast armies of the United States marched into 
Virginia during the rebellion, 1861-'65. 

The Navy Yard Bridge across the Anacostia, from the 
the foot of 11 st. E., to Uniontown or East Washington, 
supplanted a wooden structure, built in 1819. It was over 
this bridge that Booth escaped after the assassination of 
President Lincoln. 

The new Wrought Iron Truss Bridge, erected under act of Congress, June 
22, 1874, and opened June. 1875, cost, $146,000. Has horizontal top and bot- 
tom chords, vertical posts of " Phoenix" columns, and diagonal tie rods, built by 
Clark, Reeves & Co., Phcenixville, Penn. ; is 1700 ft. long ; roadway 20 ft. 
wide, and two side walks each 5 ft. wide; spans 102ft. each; one draw span 36ft., 
with 30 ft. clear opening, 12 hydraulic cement piers, and 2 abutments of granite, 
gneiss and lime stone laid in regular courses ; 440 ft. of causeway. Free Bridge 

above is the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Bridge. 

The Chain Bridge across the Potomac at the Little Falls, 
4 m. above Washington, connecting the District of Columbia 
and Virginia, was built before 1811, and was a chain suspen- 
sion bridge. This name has always been retained, though 
several structures — the last a Howe truss bridge, partly car- 
ried away in 1870 — have since been demolished by ice gorges 
and freshets, which rise to 40 ft. The present wrought-iron 
truss bridge was ordered by Congress in 1872, built by Clark, 
Reeves & Co., Phcenixville, Penna., was erected and opened 
in 1874. It is 1,350 ft. long, 20 ft. wide, 26 ft. high, and has 8 
spans, from 1G0 to 170 ft. each. The floor beams are 15-in. 
rolled iron; planking, 3-in. North Carolina Pine ; stands 30 
ft. over the main channel, and cost $100,000. The bridge 
rests on the old stone piers, raised 18 in., and is free. 

The other bridges within the District are Benning , s, a 
wooden structure, £ m. above the Navy Yard, and the Aque- 
duct of the Alexandria Canal at Georgetown. 

Communication between Washington and Georgetown 
across Hock Creek is maintained by three bridges. The 
Pennsijlvania-av. Bridge is a line iron structure, consisting 
of an arch of 200 feet, formed by two 48-in pipes, used to con- 
vey the aqueduct water into the city. 

Railroads. — In 1831 Congress authorized the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad 
to construct a branch into Washington. In 184 1 two trains were running 
each way, time, 2^ hours, distance, 40 miles. Now the capital is connected 
by rail with all parts of the country. See General In/or mat ion. 

Telegraphs. — In 1843 Congress appropriated $30,000 to test the practica- 
brlity of the system of electro-magnetic telegraphs invented by S. F. B. 
Morse. The line was completed between Washington and Baltimore in 1845. 
To-day hundreds of wires bring the government into instantaneous communi- 
cation with the remotest section of the country, and the newspapers are 
furnished with daily telegraphic intelligence from the capital. 

Street Railways. — These convenient means of city transportation were 
introduced in 1862. (See General Information.) 



SECTION III. 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. 




sf 
to the 
for the 

United 



HISTOKICAL KETKOSPECT. 

HE Legislative and Executive branches of the 
Government occupy buildings erected expressly 
for their accommodation. The co-ordinate, or Judi- 
cial branch, is yet without a structure of its own, 
though such provision for its accommodation was 
originally contemplated. The Capitol is devoted 
purposes of Congress, and affords limited facilities 
sessions and business of the Supreme Court of the 
States 




EXECUTIVE BUILDING. 1798-1871 

The increase of the Government business and the inad- 
equate accommodations afforded by the public buildings, 
commodious as they are, lias necessitated, in a number of 
cases, the purchase or renting of private buildings in different 
parts of the city. 

The Department of Justice occupies the upper portion of 



56 THE CAPITOL. 

the Freedrnen's Bank building. Winder's building, origi- 
nally erected for a hotel, now owned by the Government, is 
used by several of the bureaus of the War Department. A 
number of the bureaus of the other executive offices are 
similarly provided for. 

The first edifices built for the accommodation of the exec- 
utive offices were the War Office, 450 ft. SW., and the Treas- 
ury, on a corresponding site SE. of the President's House; 
the former before and the latter after 1800. Both faced S. 
The War Office, now the Navy Department, was later trans- 
ferred to the new building on the N. In 1818 Congress au- 
thorized the erection of two new buildings N. of those then 
standing. These were completed during the administration 
of President Monroe. The four structures were then desig- 
nated according to their location with respect to the Presi- 
dent's House; that is, the NE., SE., XW., and SW. Execu- 
tive Buildings — respectively State, Treasury, War, and Navy 
Departments. The site of the fir-t two is now occupied by 
the Treasury Department. The War and Navy Departments 
are still standing, but will shortly be removed, to make room 
for the new State, War, and Navy Department uow build- 
ing. The first building, designed by George Hadfield, Archi- 
tect of the Capitol, formed the models for all. They were 
brick, originally 2 stories high, 120 to 160 ft. front, (50 ft. deep, 
a*id 1 ", ft. high, with a freestone basement and Ionic portico. 
They were subsequently raised and otherwise modified. It 
was originally intended to have a passage between them and 
the President's House, but this was abandoned. The SE. 
building, or Treasury Department, was destroyed by fire in 
March, 1833. It then occupied temporary quarters on Penn- 
sylvania av. In 183G the erection of a new Treasury Depart- 
ment, more suitable in design and dimensions, was com- 
menced on the site of the old. Before the business of the 
Government became so great, all the offices were accom- 
modated in the four buildings. The Patent Bureau then oc- 
cupied rooms in the NE., the Attorney General's Office and 
Indian Bureau in the NW., and the General Land Office in 
the SE. Executive Buildings. 



THE CAPITOL. 

The Capitol of the United States {open every day, except 
Sunday) stands on the W. brow of the plateau which forms 
the E. portion of the city. It may be reached from the more 
populous sections by street cars. Pennsylvania av., trom 



APPROACHES. 57 

Georgetown, leads to one of the gates at the foot of the hill, 
below the \V. entrance. From the President's House, by 
Pennsylvania av., the distance to the Capitol is 1£ m., and 
the same from the most remote of the principal hotels. The 
street cars pass in front of or close by all the hotels. 

Street Oars. — The Pennsylvania-av. (marked "Capitol") 
Street Cars, from the W., pass around the Capitol on the S., 
and by a branch track from S. B st., carry visitors to the 
SE. angle of the S. Extension, occupied by the House of 
Kepresentatives. Strangers should be careful to take a car 
for the Capitol. Those marked "Navy Yard" run within a 
short distance of the same point. Those of the same line for 
the Baltimore and Ohio RR. Depot would leave them on the 
N. line of the grounds, and some distance from the building. 
The Metropolitan, or F-st Cars, by a branch track, land pas- 
sengers on the plateau at the NE. angle of the 1ST. or Senate 
Extension. Strangers should be careful to take a car for the 
Capitol. The same line of cars to the E. parts of the city on 
E. Capitol st. also pass near the same point. 

Site. — The Capitol occupies very nearly the centre of the plot 
of the city, there being 25 sts. E., 27 sts.VY., 22 sts. 1ST., and 21 
sts. S. Oil a straight line, however, drawn from N\V. to SE., 
it stands about ^ m. towards the latter point. The great white 
Dome which surmounts the mighty pile, rising high in the 
air, is visible for miles around — indeed from every elevated 
point in the District. From it, as far as the eye can reach, 
may be seen rolling hills, broad valleys, and rivers. The E. 
fapade of the building looks out upon the expansive plain of 
Capitol Hill, with a background of beautiful elevations, 
those on the right being beyond the Anacostia; the N. 
across a broad intervening valley to the wooded encircling 
hills of the city; the S. down upon the low grounds and 
sparsely settled portions of the city, with the broad Potomac 
and Anacostia mingling their waters in the distance ; the W. 
overlooks the business and official quarters, the lawns and 
groves of the Botanical Garden, the Mall, and the President's 
Grounds, and the wooded summit of University Square, with 
the shining domes of the Observatory and Georgetown Heights 
beyond. 

Approaches. — Broad avs. and sts., 11 in number, from 130 
to 160 ft. wide, radiate from the Capitol and constitute its ap- 
proaches as follows : E. front — to the NE. Maryland av., to 
the SE. Pennsylvania av., and to the E. E. Capitol st. ; W. 
front — to the NW. Pennsylvania av., to the SW. Maryland 
av., and to the W. lie the Botanical Garden and Mall ; N. 



58 THE GROUNDS. 

front— NE. Delaware aw, NW. New Jersey av., to the N. 
N. Capitol St.; S. front— to the SE. New Jersey av., to the 
SW. Delaware av., and to the S. S. Capitol st. 

The Grounds. — The grounds surrounding the Capitol, en- 
larged in 1872-'3, by the purchase of squares G87 and 6S8, for 
$684,199.15, respectively in the N. E. and S. E. angles form 
a parallelogram 1,800 ft. E. and W. and 1,253 ft. N. and S M 
containing 51 J a. The Capitol occupies the centre, and with 
its massive porticos, broad steps and blockings, towering 
dome and columns, pilasters, entablatures, with architrave, 
frieze, and cornice, pediment and balustrade, is one of the 
most imposing structures in the world. 

In 1874, Congress, for the tirst time, took steps towards a 
creditable improvement of these grounds. A topographical 
survey was made, and Fred. Law Olmstead of New York, 
landscape architect, authorized to furnish plans. On June 
23, 1874, $200,000 were appropriated to be expended under 
the direction of the architect of the Capitol. Mr. Olmstead. 
charged with the execution of the plans, was aided by John 
A. Partridge, engineer in charge, and Geo. Kent Radford, 
consulting engineer. 

The general features of the improvements are the continua- 
tion of East Capitol St., to connet with a broad paved carriage 
court, (Neuchatel pavement,) 300 ft. wide in front of the cen- 
tral portico. On either side is an undulating space of oval 
shape. On that portion facing the building is a seat with 
blue stone plinth, and base, Seneca back and blue stone coping 
and cap. The seat is divided into 8 spaces by piers of blue 
stone and Seneca, 3 ft. 4 in. high, surmounted by bronze 
lamps 12 ft. high. In front is laid a patent Mosaic pavement 
in colors. 

In front of the central portico stands 6 lamp piers 13 ft. 
3 in. high, blue stone base, with red sand stone band, and 
above, blue stone and polished Passamaquoddy (red) granite, 
in alternate courses, surmounted by bronze lamp posts, 12 ft. 
high, designed by Thomas Wisedell, of N. Y.. cast by Janes, 
of N. Y., 1874. In the rear, on either side of the main 
avenue, is a flower casket, base 40 by 30 ft., of blue stone 
and granite, and surmounted by a bronze vase, from which 
rises a spray fountain. Around each casket is a pavement 
similar to that in front of the seat. 

The plans yet to be acted upon for the West Park contem- 
plate a terrace 50 ft. wide, with supporting walls 10 ft. high. 
Opposite the central western portico an imposing double 
flight of steps will descend to a terraced walk, 40 ft. wide 



60 THE GROUNDS. 

and 1,000 ft. long, terminating In beautiful pavilions. Op- 
posite the main steps is another descent to the three main 
diverging foot-ways. 

From the various converging avenues drives and foot ap- 
proaches lead into the grounds through appropriate entrances, 
to the carriage court and porte cocheres. At the Pennsylva- 
nia and Maryland avenue foot approaches, on the west, will 
be large fountains. In the northeastern space is the Sumner 
beech, so called in consideration of the Senator's admiration. 

h\ front of the central western projection of the portico is 
an oval basin, (78,827 galls.,) which receives the water from a 
white and b\\\e~marble fountain near by, erected in 1834, and 
fed from a covered reservoir under the carriage court at the 
head of the main avenue, East Park, supplied from Smith's 
Spring, 1£ m. N. of the Capitol, just NE. of Howard Uni- 
versity, and purchased in 1832. In this basin, in 1814, stood 
the Naval Monument to the memory of the officers who fell 
in the Tripolitan war, 1S04, now stands in the U. S. Naval 
Academy grounds at Annapolis, Md. 

In the E. Park is the colossal statue of George Washington, 
'* the father of his country," by Horatio Greenough, of Mass., 
ordered by Congress, 1832. for the Rotunda of rhe Capitol, 
made in Florence, Italy, was S years in completion, weighs 
12 tons, if erect would be 12 ft. high, and cost, including 
sculptor's work, freight, removals, and attendant expenses, 
$44,000; of this $5,000 were for transportation from the 
"Washington navy yard to the Rotunda, about 1 m. The large 
size of the statue has occasioned considerable embarrassment. 
It was designed by Congress that it should be suitable to the 
interior of the Capitol. It was found entirely out of propor- 
tion there. Its final resting place is yet a matter of doubt. 

In the figure, the right hand points to heaven, and the left, advanced, holds a 
Roman short sword, the handle presented. Over the right arm and lower parts of 
the body falls a mantle. The seat is ornamented with acanthus leaves and garlands 
of flotvers. The carvings in the back admits of a view of the back of the statue. A 
small figure of Columbus rests against the left arm of the seat, and of an Indian 
against the right. In basso relievo on the right of the seat is represented Phaston in 
his car, drawn by fleet steeds, allegorically, the rising sun, and the crest of the arms 
of the United States. On the left are represented N. and S. America, as the infant 
Hercules strangling the serpent, and Iphiclus on the ground shrinking from the con- 
test. The back of the seat bears the inscription, '•'■Simulacrum istud ad magnum 
Libertatis exemplum nee sine ipsa duraturum. HORATIUS GREENOUGH, Faciabat. 
(This statue is for a great example of Liberty, nor without Liberty will the exam- 
ple endure. Horatio Greenough, Sculptor.) The pedestal is 12 ft. high, and of 
solid blocks of New England granite. The inscriptions arc: S. face, tv First in 
Peace ;" N., " First in War ; " W., " First in the hearts of his Countrymen." A 
better effect for the statute, and particularly softening its necessarily coarse lines, 
would be secured by elevating the pedestal to a height of at least 25 ft. 

In 1840 a United States frigate was despatched by Congress to bring the statue to 
the United States. The hatches, however, were not sufficiently large to admit it 
into the hold. A merchant ship, the Sea, was chartered and altered to accommo- 
date the unwieldly mass. In 1841 it arrived and was placed in the rotunda of the 



THE (UtoUNDS. 



01 



Capitol. The 
main door was 
cut away to ad- 
mit it, and a pier 
of masonry e- 
rected beneath 
the pavement to 
supportit. Here 
it was out of pro- 
portion, and in 
184a it was re- 
moved to the E. 
Park, where it 
stood for many 
years beneath 
an uncouth shel- 
ter of pine 
boards. The sta- 
tue, while ad- 
mired as a work 
of art, has been 
much criticised 
as a misconcep- 
tion of the char- 
acter in which 
the subject is 
held in the hearts 
of his country- 
men. A foreign 
writer has desig- 
nated it " a sort 
of domestic Ju- 
piter." 

The Capitol 
originally stood 
on the declivity 
of the hill, and 
on the W. pre- 
sented a story 
below the base 
line on the E. 
To correct this 
defect and great- 
ly enhance the 
imposing ap- 
pearance of the 
structure, the 
se mici rcu iar 
rang.; of case- 
mates, utilized for fuel and storage, was constructed, the outer face forming a beauti- 
ful green glad;. The terre-plein is paved with Maryland Seneca stone, with an outer 
;.■;''.]> of New England granite. IniSiS the terrace was connected with the building by 
the bro;:d platform opposite the western projection, and the west door was cut through. 
In 1S73 the iron railing which enclosed the grounds was removed to give plac-e to an 
enlarged line of enclosure then purchased 

The configuration of the immediate eminence upon which 
the Capitol'stands has been materially changed and beauti- 
fied by the hand of art. The original slopes have been mod- 
ified by terraces and slopes falling to the level of the divergent 
avenues. There is also an enlarged line of enclosure, em- 




GREENOUGH S STATUE OF WASHINGTON. 



62 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

bracing the acquisitions of additional ground. 

General Description.— The Capitol of the United States, 
as now completed, is unquestionably the finest and largest 
building of the kind on the face of the earth, and does credit 
to the skill of the architects and the taste of the nation. 
In durability of structure and costliness of material it is also 
superior to any other. The great edifices of the Old World 
are accumulations of a number of centuries. The Capitol 
of the United States is the stupendous work of less than 
a single century. The elevated seat, formed by nature and 
art, upon which the Capitol stands, is 89J ft. above ordinary 
low tide in the Potomac, 1 mile distant, and is admirably 
adapted to the display of its vast proportions and architecture. 
The entire length of the building is 751 ft., and the greatest 
depth, the breadth of the wings, 324 ft., including the porticos 
and steps. The ground-plan covers about 3^ acres. 

The structure in detail consists of a main building' and two extensions, or 
wings, with connecting corridors. The main or central building is 352 ft. in 
length, and, exclusive of the W. projection, 121^ ft. deep, with an E. central 
colonnaded portico 160 ft. wide, consisting of rows of monolithic Corinthian 
columns, 24 in number and 30 tt. high, exclusive of pedestals. The portico is 
elevated on a rustic basement, surmounted by an enriched entablature and 
pediment, the latter 80 ft. broad. Over this rises an attic story, surmounted 
by the Dome, 135^ ft. in diameter. In the rear and on either side of this main 
portico the edifice rests on a basement to correspond with that of the portico. 
Above this rises the order, two stories in height, with pilasters, an entablature, 
frieze, and surmounting balustrade, carried out in the same architectural de- 
sign. It is proposed, at some future day, to take down this portico,- and ex- 
tend the front of the central building E., to bring it at least on a line with the 
E. front of the two extensions, so as to perfect the architectural group. Be- 
tween the original building and each of the extensions, which lie at the N.and 
S., is a connecting corridor of 44 ft. in length and 56 ft. depth, with four fluted 
columns on either front. Each extension has a front of 143 ft. facing the E. 
and W., and depth of 239 ft. along the N. and S. facades. The latter is ex- 
clusive of the porticos and steps on the E., which correspond with the main 
building. 

The facades of each extension are embellished with porticos on three sides, 
those on the E. consisting of 22 fluted monolithic columns, in two rows, N. 
and S., and 10 on the W. ends, the columns facing the N. and S. respectively 
constituting the N. and S. fronts of the building. The porticos of the N. and 
S. facades are 124 ft. front. 

The westjront of the main building presents a central projection of 83 ft. 
by 160 ft. front, with a recessed colonnade ioo ft. in extent, consisting of 10 
coupled columns, elevated on a rustic basement, as the E. front, and rising, 
with its entablature and balustrade, to the roof, surmounted by a paneled 
screen or attic. The rest of the W. front is the same as the E. There are no 
steps on the W. front of the main building, it being entered from the upper 
terrace. The extensions stand on a foundation of granite, raised about 4 ft. 
on all sides ; the basement or ground floor is reached by granite steps. On the 
E. facade are three broad flights of steps, which lead to the commencement 
of the order. Beneath the basement is a sub-basement, visible only and ac- 
cessible on the outside from the casemated terrace on the W. 

The central building first erected is freestone, from the Government quar- 
ries at Aquia Creek, about 40 m. below the city, purchased by the Commis- 
sioners in 1791. This is painted, in order to conform in general appearance 
with the wings, which are built of white marble, from Lee, Massachusetts. 
The marble columns of the extensions are from the quarries at Cockeysville, 



THE DOiUE. 



63 



Maryland. The appropriations made by Congress from 1800 to date for the 
erection and remodeling of the Capitol amount to $1 5.000,000. 




THE WESTERN FACADE AND PARK OF THE CAPITOL. 

The Dome. — Out of the centre of the main building rises 
the great Dome of the Capitol, designed by Walter, and which 
replaced a smaller one removed in 1856. It is of the follow- 
ing dimensions : 

Exterior Heir/lit — above the base line of the E. f;i9ade of the 
Capitol to the top of the lantern, 288 ft.; above the W. gate 
of the park, 360 ft.; above the balustrade of the building, 218 
ft.; statue of Freedom on the apex, 19 J ft. Total height from 
base line to crest of statue of Freedom, 307i ft. Total height 
above low tide in the Potomac, 397 ft. Diameter, 135| ft. 

The Dome rests on an octagonal base or stylobate, 93 ft. 
above the basement floor, and as it leaves the top line of the 
building consists of n peristyle, 124 ft. in diameter, of 36 iron 
fluted columns, 27 ft. high, and weighing 6 tons each. Above 
this is a balustrade. From the entablature of the peristyle 
to the attic is 44 ft. Above the balustrade begins the domi- 
cal covering. The apex is surmounted by a lantern? 15 ft. in 



54 



THE DOME 



diameter and 50 ft. high, surrounded by a peristyle, and 
crowned by the bronze Statue of Freedom. Just below the 
lantern is a balustrade around the crowning platform. The 
outer domical shell is pierced with glazed openings for the 
admission of light. In the lantern is a reflecting lamp, lighted 
by electricity, and used only when either or both Houses of 
Congress are sitting at night. This light is visible from all 
parts of the city. 
The Statue of Freedom, by Crawford, 1865, which sur- 
mounts the lantern of the Dome, rep- 
resents the figure of a female, the r. 
hand resting on the hilt of a sheathed 
sword; the 1. on a shield, and holding 
a wreath. The crest of the helmet con- 
sists of an eagle's beak, embellished 
with plumes of feathers. This head- 
gear was not the conception of the 
artist, but an after-suggestion. The 
original model represented a simple 
head-band, encircled with stars. The 
drapery of the figure is both chaste and 
striking. Over an inner garb is a fur- 
red robe, tastefully adjusted over the 
1. shoulder and falling over the 1. arm ; 
at the waist it is gathered in loose folds, 
and held by a brooch, bearing the let- 
ters U. S. The attitude of the statue 
exhibits in a striking degree the beauty 
of feminine grace with decision. The 
statue is 19i ft. high, and the weight of 
bronze 14,985 lbs., or 6 tons (2,240 lbs.) 
and 1,545 lbs. It was cast at Clark 
Mills' foundry at Bladensburg, 5 m. 
XE. of Washington, and cost $23,796. The statue stands on 
a bronze capping for the Dome, representing a globe, with 
an encircling zone, upon which are the words "E Plvribus 
Unum." The weight of iron used in the Dome is 8,009.200 
lbs., or 3,575 tons (2,240) 1,200 lbs. The Dome stands upon 
a substruction of masonry, which forms the foundation of the 
outside walls, and also upon 40 interior columns, which sup- 
port heavy arches, upon which rests the pavement of the 
Kotunda. The casting and erecting of the iron work of the 
immense structure was performed by Janes, Fowler. 
Kirtland & Co.. of New York, whose successors, Janes & 
Kirtland, continue the work and fame of that great estab- 
lishment. There are two smaller domes, just visible above 
the crowning balustrade. The roof of the entire building 
is covered with copper and iron. 




STATUE OF FREEDOM. 



PORTICOS, 65 

The following are the dimensions of the three greatest 
domes of Europe : 

St. Peter's, Rome, from the pavement to the base of the 
lantern, 405 ft. ; to the top of the cross outside, 458 ft. ; ex- 
terior diameter of the cupola, 195J ft. ; interior, 139 ft. St. 
Paul's, -London, England, to the top of the cross, 404 ft.; 
diameter, 112 ft. Hotel des Invalides, Paris, France, over 
the Tomb of Napoleon, 323 ft. 

It will be seen that the Dome of the Capitol of the United 
United States ranks fifth in height and fourth in diameter. 
The dome of the Cathedral of St. Isaac, at St. Petersburg, the 
National Church of Russia, is 363 ft. in height, and is also a. 
magnificent structure, built of iron and bronze. 

. Porticos. — The E. facade of the Capitol is broken by three 
grand porticos, reached by broad flights of steps, and from 
which open the three principal doorways. Beneath each of 
these porticos are massive vaulted carriageways to the base- 
ment entrances, the centre one of which opens into the Crypt. 
The main Portico, 160 ft. in length, consists of 24 monolithic 
columns, 30 ft. high. On the tympanum of the pediment is 
an allegorical group in alto relievo, by Persico, an Italian, 
representing the Genius of America. The principal figure, 
representing America, is of semi-colossal size, and standing 
on a broad unadorned plinth, holding in her hand a poised 
shield, with U. S. A. emblazoned in the centre of a ray of 
glory. The shield, which is oval, represents an ornamented 
altar, in the centre of which is a wreath of oak leaves, in basso 
relievo, encircling July 4, 1776. In the rear of the figure rests 
a broad spear, and at her feet an eagle, with partly-spread 
wings. The head of the figure is crowned with a star, and 
inclines towards the figure of "Hope," who is addressing her. 
The right arm of "Hope " is raised, and the left rests on the 
stock of an anchor, the hand grasping part of the drapery. 
The Genius of America, in reply to Hope, who is recounting 
the glory of the nation, points to the figure on the other side, 
which represents Justice, with eyes uplifted, and holding in 
the right hand a partly-unrolled scroll, on which is inscribed 
" Constitution of the United States," and in the left the scales. 
Justice has neither bandage nor sword, representing that 
American justice judges intelligently. The emblematic char- 
acter of the group suggests that, however Hope may flatter, 
all prosperity should be founded in public right and the pres- 
ervation of the Constitution. The execution of the work is 
excellent, but cannot be entirely appreciated from its raised 
position. All the figures are cut in sandstone, and 7£ ft. in 
height. The sculptor at first contemplated giving more 



C6 PORTICOS. 

nudity to the group, but being persuaded that it was con- 
trary to the sentiment of the people of the United States, went 
to the other extreme. The ascent to this portico is by an im- 
posing flight of freestone steps, flanked on either side by mas- 
sive buttresses. On the S. buttress stands a semi-colossal 
group of statuary by Persico, an Italian, 1846, representing 
the Discovery of America, in a figure of Columbus, holding 
aloft a small globe, on the top of which is inscribed America 
At his side crouches an astonished and awe-stricken Indian 
maiden. The group consumed 5 years in execution, and 
cost $24,000. It is said that the armor is true to a rivet, hav- 
ing been copied from a suit in the palace of the descendants 
of the discoverer at Genoa. The corresponding group on 
the N". buttress, by Greenough, 1842, represents the First Set- 
tlement of America, consisting of five figures : a hunter rescu- 
ing a woman and child from the murderous Indian, while by 
the side is a faithful dog. The work consumed about 12 
years in execution, and cost $24,000. It is of Servazza mar- 
ble. Persico was first designated to make this group. In the 
niches on the r. and 1. of the great Bronze Door, opening into 
the Rotunda, are the colossal statues of Peace and War, both 
by Persico, 1832. Peace is represented by the Goddess Ceres, 
a gentle maiden, with loose flowing robes and sandals. In 
her r. hand she bears fruit, and her 1. an olive branch. War 
is represented by Mars, a stern warrior, attired in Roman 
toga, belt, and tunic, with helmet and sandals. The tunic 
bears the symbols of his victims. The statues are of the 
finest quality of Cararra marble, each 9 ft. in height, were 
5 years in execution, and cost $12,000 apiece. Both are fine 
specimens of art. Over the Bronze Door is a basso relievo by 
Capellano, 1827, representing Fame and Peace in the act of 
placing a laurel wreath upon the brow of Washington. In 
panels on either side are bundles of radiating arrows, with 
surroundings of leaves. 

The E. Portico of the North or Senate Extension is reached 
by a broad flight of 46 marble steps, broken by 4 landings, 
and flanked by massive cheek-blocks, carrying out the design 
of the central Portico. This portico measures 143 ft., and is 
adorned by a double row of monolithic Corinthian columns, 
22 in all, 30 ft. high, exclusive of base, and is surmounted 
by a pediment of 72 ft. span. The group of figures on the 
Tympanum, by Thomas Crawford, symbolizes the Progress 
of Civilization in the United States. The centre figure repre- 
sents America, with the rising sun in the background. On 
her r. are figures of War and Commerce, Youth and Educa- 
tion, Mechanics and Agriculture. On her 1. the Pioneer, the 
Hunter, and the Aboriginal Race. The latter is represented 



MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 



67 



by an Indian and squaw, with an infant in her arms, seated 
by a filled grave, typical of the decadence of the red race. 
This group, ordered in 1862, was cut by Italians, out of Amer- 
ican marble from Massachusetts, and cost $45,950. 

The E. Portico of the South or "House " Extension, in archi- 
tectural design, dimensions, and material, is the same as 
that of the N. Extension. The portico is without statuary 
or sculptured embellishment ; yet, with its beautiful marble 
columns supporting the entablature and surmounting pedi- 
ment, it is grand in its nude proportions. 

The ■ W. facade, the central projection and extensions, and 
the N. and S. faces of the building, are decorated with col- 
onnades, of beautiful proportions, and surmounted by balus- 
trades, all in harmony with the porticos on the E . 

1. Main Bronze Door.— The great Bronze Boor, modeled 
in Rome, 1858, by Randolph Rogers, and cast in bronze in 
Munich in 1860, by F. v. Miller, fills the main doorway, 
from the grand Portico 
into the Rotunda. The 
valves of the door stand 
in a superbly enriched 
casing, also of bronze, and 
fold back into suitably 
fitted jambs. The height 
is 19 ft.; width, 9 ft.; 
weight 20,000 lbs., and 
cost $28,000. 

In 1862 this door stood in the 
south doorway of the old Hall of 
Representatives. In 1871 it was 
removed to its present appropriate 
place. 

The events portrayed 
in the panels of the door 
constitute in alto relievo 
the principal events in 
the Life of Columbus 
and the Discovery of 
America, with an ornate 
enrichment of emblemat- 
ic designs. On the key 
of the arch is an excel- 
lent Head of Columbus. In 
the casing are four typi- 
cal statuettes representing 
A ; Asia; B, Africa; C, 
Europe; D, America. The 
rest of the casing is em- 




THE MAIN BRONZE DOOK. 



68 



MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 
















15 
13 

11 
9 


O 






o 


16 

14 

12 

10 


IV 


2 


1 


VI 


o 






o 


III 


4 


3 


VII 


o 






O 


ii 


6 


5 


VIII 


o 






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1 


8 


7 


IX 


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D 



bellished with a running bor- 
der in relief of ancient armor, 
banners, and heraldic designs, 
emblematic of Navigation and 
Conquest. Sixteen statuettes of 
the patrons and contempora- 
ries of Columbus embellish the 
outer borders of each leaf of 
the door, as follows : 

i. Alexander VI, Roderigo Lenzoli Bor- 
gia, a native of Spain, Pope of Rome 1492- 

I5°3. 

2. Pedro Gonzales de Mendoza, Arch- 
bishop of Toledo, and Grand Cardinal 
of Spain, a man of great influence at 
court, and early patron of Columbus. 

3. Ferdinand, King of Spain, royal pa- 
tron of the undertaking of Columbus. 

4. Isabella, Queen of Spain, and royal 
patroness of Columbus. 

5. Charles VIII, King of France, an en- 
lightened monarch and friend to the cause 
of discovery. 

6. Lady Beatriz de Bobadilla, Marchion- 
ess of Moya, and friend of Columbus. It 
is said the likeness is of Mrs. Rogers, wife 
to the sculptor. 

7. John II, King of Portugal, the mon- 
arch who rejected the proposals of Co- 
lumbus. 

8. Henry VII, King of England, ap- 
pealed to by Bartholomew Columbus on 
behalf of his brother ; meantime the dis- 
covery was accomplished under the aus- 
pices of Spain. 



MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 

(Also see page 70.) 

9. Juan Perez de Marchena, prior of the Convent of La Rabida, and friend to 
Columbus. 

10. Martin Alonzo Pinzon, commander of the Pinta, the second vessel in the first 
fleet across the ocean. 

11. Hernando Cortez, early companion of Columbus, and conqueror of Mexico. 

12. Bartholomew Columbus, brother to Christopher, advocate of his theory at the 
court of Henry VII, and first Adelentado of Hispaniola. It is said that the likenes\ 
is of the sculptor. 

13. Alonzo de Ojeda, a companion of Columbus in his first voyage of discoverv 
and one of the most daring of his contemDoraries. 

14. Vasco Nunez de Balboa, discoverei of the Pacific Ocean from the Isthmus cf 
Darien. 

15. Amerigo Vespucci, one of the earlier discoverers of the main land of America, 
author of the first account of the New World, and from whom the con :inent taken it? 
name. 

16. Francisco Pizarro, conauernr of Peru 

I 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 
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09 



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70 MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 

The panels illustrate in alto relievo the leading events in Ihe 
career of Columbus, beginning at the lower panel of the r. or 
S. leaf of the door. 

I. Columbus examined before the Council of Salamanca respecting his theory 
of the globe, which was rejected. 

II. Departure of Columbus for the Spanish court from the Convent of La Rabida, 
near Palos. 

III. Audience at the court of Ferdinand and Isabella. 

IV. Departure of Columbus from Palos on his first voyage of discovery. 

V. Transom panel, Columbus landed on the Island of San Salvador, and taking 
possession in the name of his sovereign. 

VI. Encounter with the natives. 

VII. Triumphal entree of Columbus into Barcelona. 
VIII. Columbus in chains. 

IX. The death-bed of Columbus. He died at VaIladolid,May 20, 1506, aged 70 
vears. His last words were: " In manus tuas, Domine, commendo spiritum meum." 
"Into thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit." Thirty years after his remains 
were transferred to the Cathedral of San Domingo, on the island of that name. In 
1796, when the Spaniards lost their hold on the island, they were removed to Havana. 

Between the panels are a series of heads, representing the 
historians of the voyages of Columbus and his followers. That 
above the lower or N. panel of the door is Washington Irving^ 
and in the corresponding position opposite W. H. Prescott. 

Botunda. — From the central Portico, passing through the 
great Bronze Door, the visitor stands under the lofty canopy 
of the Kotunda. The height from pavement to canopy is 
180 ft., and diameter 96 ft. The circuit of the sides is di- 
vided into eight panels, separated by massive Roman pilas- 
ters, supporting an entablature ornamented with wreaths of 
olive 

Over the panels are busts in alto relievo beginning on the left of the west 
door, of Columbus, Raleigh, Cabot and LaSalle, executed by Capellano and 
Caucici, Italians, pupils of Canova, ordered 1827, cost with wreath-work $9,500. 
Over the four entrances are alto relievos, cost $3,500 each. 

East Door, Landing of the Pilgrims 1620, Caucici 18—. a pupil of Canova ; 
West Door, Pocahontas Saving the Life of Captain Smith, Capellano, 1821, a 
pupil of Canova ; North Door, William Penn Holding a Conference with the 
Indians, 1682, Gavelot, 1827; South Door, Daniel Boone in Conflict with the 
Indians, 1773, Caucici, 18 — . All these are wretched caricatures. 

In the frieze 300 ft. in circumference and 10 ft. high are representations in 
fresco by Constantino Brumidi, 1878-80. 1. America and History; 2. Landing 
of Columbus; 3. Cortez and Montezuma at Mexican Temple; 4. Pizarro off 
Peru ; 5. De Soto's Burial in the Mississippi River ; 6. Rescue of John Smith 
by Pocohontas ; 7. Landing of the Pilgrims ; 8. Penn's Treaty with the In- 
dians, unfinished at the death of Brumidi, resumed by Filippo Costiggini, also 
a native of Rome, July 1880, and executed the four cartoons left by Brumidi, 
o Colonization of New England ; io, Oglethorpe and the Muscogee Indians ; 
ii Battle of Lexington ; cartoons 12 to ifi will be of designs by the new artist. 
The style is fresco in Chmro-os< u*o (Light and Shade). 

The Historioal Paintings :-Jn the rotunda represent the discovery and 
settlement of N. America and events in the struggle for inde- 
pendence. . .. „, 

The Trumbull paintings were ordered in 1817, and finished in 1824. 1 rum- 
bull served as aid-de-camp to Washington in 1775- His figures are likenesse* 
of the actors in the scenes portrayed, taken in America and LuroDe. 



ROTUNDA. 



71 




SECTIONAL VIEW OF THE DOME. 
(From " Washington Inside and Outside.") 



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CAPITOL IMTEKIOK. 



The Canopy of the Rotunda consists of an inner shell of 
iron ribs and lathing, laid with plaster suitable for frescoing, 
180 ft. above the pavement, 65^ ft. in diameter, 204 ft. in cir- 
cumference, 21 ft. vertical height, 5000 sq. ft.;thefrescoes,or- 
dered by Congress, 1864, were executed by Constantino Bru- 
midi, and cost $50,000; $39,000 compensation.balance for ma- 
terial. When Illuminated by hundreds of gas jets, lighted by 
electricity. The effect is very fine. 




THE CANOPY OF THE ROTUNDA. 



The apex of the canopy represents an apotheosis of Washington, with Free- 
dom on his right and Victory on his left. The 13 Female figures represent the 
geographical order and products of the original States, and also support ;.a /and 
inscribed E Pluribus Unutn. On the outer zone, 204 ft. in length, are 6 groups 
allegorical of the Revolution, 1776-83, as follows : 

1. The Fall of Tyranny. — Represented by Freedom and an Eagle battling 
with Tyranny and Priestcraft; a mailed soldier vainly struggling to uphold the 
ermined robe of royalty. Discord stands by; also Anger and Revenge, with the 
incendiary torch. 

2. Agriculture, towards the N. — Represented by Ceres, with cornucopia. 
America, wearing a red Cap of Liberty, turning over to Ceres the mastery of a pair 
of horses attached to a reaper. Flora is gathering flowers, and Pomona bears a basket 
of fruit. 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 81 

J. Mechanics. — Represented by Vulcan, resting his r. foot on a cannon, and 
around are the various instruments of his art, with mortars and cannon balls. 

4. Commerce. — Represented by Mercury, holding a bag of gold, and directing 
attention to it. The figure thus called is Robert Morris, the financier of the Revo- 
lution. Merchandise, with men at work, and two sailors, pointing to a gunboat, 
complete the allegory. 

5. Marine. — Representing Neptune in his car, bearing his trident, accompanied 
by attendants, emerging from the deep. Amphrodite, Venus.* is about dropping 
into the foaming waters an electric cable, which has been handed her by a cherub. 

6. Arts and Sciences. — Represented by Minerva, the Goddess of Wisdom- 
surroundea by figures — Franklin, the philosopher; Fulton, the inventor of the 
steamboat ; and Morse, the inventor of the magnetic telegraph. The figures of 
juveniles indicate teaching. 

3. West Door of the Eotunda, leading to the main door of 
the Library of Congress. This door is also at the head of the 
•staircase leading from the Western Entrance of the Capitol 

4. Western Main Staircase, connecting Western Entrance 
5 and 6. Library of the United States. — (Open every day, 

Sundays excepted, from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m.; during sessions of 
Congress till hour of adjournment.) 

The Library Halls occupy the principal floor of the entire 
W. projection of the Capitol, consisting of a connecting cen- 
tral hall, 91£ ft. long, 34 ft. wide, and 38 ft. high, completed 
in 1853, with two wings on the N". and S., each 95 ft. long, 29£ 
ft. wide, and 38 ft. high, finished in 1865. The interior was 
designed by Mr. Walter, Architect of the Capitol, who com- 
pleted the central library, and the wings were carried out by 
Mr. Clark, his successor, at a total cost of $280,000. The cen- 
tral library consists of 12 deep recesses, or alcoves, surmount- 
ed bj 2 upper tiers of cases, with galleries and corridors, all of 
iron. The hall is lighted by windows in the alcoves and by 
skylights fitted in the iron frame-work of the roof, and trans- 
mitted through the ceiling. This consists of iron frame-work 
supported upon massive foliated iron brackets, each weigh- 
ing 2,000 lbs. The alcoves and shelves are embellished with 
pilastered and paneled fronts, painted a soft buff color and 
artistically gilded. The book-shelves are also of iron, and 
covered with leather. The floors are of tessellated black-and- 
white marble. The wings are of the same design as the cen- 
tral hall. The former have 4 tiers of shelves instead of 3. Heat 
and ventilation are supplied from the Senate and House ap- 
paratus, 200 ft. distant, on either side. The iron-work was 
manufactured in New York, and transported in pieces. It 
is the only completely fire-proof library in the world. The 
library halls afford accommodation for 172,000 volumes, and 
with the attic and law library 210,000. The additional space 
required has been in part supplied by temporary wooden 
shelves ranged along the galleries. 

It is proposed to erect a suitable building in the angle of 
the E. Park of the Capitol, to be specially devoted to the pur- 
poses of the Library of the United States. 



82 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

The Library of Congress now numbers upwards of 315,000 bound volumes, 
and 100,000 pamphlets, besides manuscripts. The annual increase is about 
12,000 volumes. There are sixteen libraries in Europe containing a greater 
number of volumes. The Library of Congress is the largest in the United 
States. Each House of Congress has a documentary library of its own, com- 
prising all official documents published under their own authority. 

A fine view of the city may be had from the western portico. (See map of 
city for points of interest.) 

Under the Rules of the Library the privilege of taking books out is accorded 
by divers statutes. All persons 16 years and upwards can call for books to be 
used in the Hall. 

This national collection of books has many distinctive features. It is rich 
in books, pamphlets, journals, manuscripts, and maps relating to the history 
and topography of America. It is only approximated in this particular by 
the library in the British Museum in London. Among the rare works are two 
great folios, written on vellum, with numerous illuminations by hand, executed 
with the utmost care in the 13th century; a constitution of Pope Clement V., of 
Rome, 1467, by Peter Schoeffer at Mentz ; a copy of Eliot's Indian Bible ; 300 
early atlases and maps, some unpublished, of the American continent ; a large 
number of incunabula, or books printed during the infancy of the art, by the 
most distinguished early printers, representing every year from 1467 to 1500; 48 
folio volumes of historical autographs of great rarity and interest. 

Librarians of Congress. — Clerks of the House of Representatives : 1802- 
1807, John Beckley, of Va.; 1807-1815, Patrick Magruder, of Md. Librarians: 
1 815-1820, George Watterson, D. C; 1829-1861, John S. Meehan, N. Y.; 1861- 
1864, John G. Stephenson, Ind.; 1864, Ainsworth R. Spofford, Ohio. 

History. — The Library of Congress was founded underact of April 24, 1800. 
John Randolph, of Roanoke, of the new committee on the Library, on Dec. 
18, 1801, reported upon the needs of the Library, and on January 26, 1802, 
Congress passed an act placing it on a permanent footing. The first collection 
comprised about 3,000 volumes. From this time various sums from $450 to 
$12,000 per annum have been appropriated by Congress for purchases. In the 
burning of the Capitol by the British in 1814, the Library was destroyed. On 
September 21, 1814, Thomas Jefferson tendered the sale of his library of 6,700 
volumes. It was purchased by Congress for $23,950. The collection contained 
many rare works gathered in Europe. In 1824 the Library was transferred 
from its temporary quarters over the present offices of the Clerk of the Su- 
preme Court, to the present main hall. On Dec. 24, 1851, the Library then 
numbering 55,000 was destroyed by fire, occasioned by a defective flue. About 
35,000 volumes were burned. Amongst the works of art destroyed were Stuart's 
paintings of the first five Presidents, and originals of Columbus and Peyton 
Randolph. In 1852 Congress appropriated $157,500 to refit the hall, which led 
to the present elegant accommodations. In 1866 the Smithsonian Library^ 
consisting of 40,000 volumes, embracing the largest assemblage of the trans- 
actions of scientific and learned societies in the world, was transferred to the 
Library. In 1867 the Peter Force Collection of books, manuscripts, maps and 
papers relating to American history, the most complete extant, was purchased 
for $100,000. 

On July 8, 1870, the copyright business of the United States was placed under 
the Librarian of Congress, subject to the joint committee on the Library. Two 
copies of the best edition of every book copyrighted must be deposited. 

The Law Branch of the Library of Congress (see number 44 Plan of Base- 
ment Story) was not regularly established until the act of 1832. The Librarian 
of Congress was placed in charge. The Justices of the Supreme Court were to 
have free access to the Library, and to make rules and regulations for its proper 
custody and management, but not in conflict with the same for the government 
of the Library of Congress. All appropriations, about $2,000 per annum, are 
expended by the Librarian of Congress, under the direction of the Chief Justice. 
The Library now numbers about 50,000 volumes, and is the largest and most 
valuable in the United States. In 1848 ic was assigned to its present quarters. 



7 and 8. Store-rooms for the Library 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



83 



CENTRE BUILDING— NORTH WING. 

9. North Door of the Rotunda. — On the left of the passage 
are the indicators, and keys which operate the wires for light- 
ing the Rotunda. (See 11.) This passage leads into — 

10. Vestibule, of an elliptical shape, and in imitation of a 
Greek temple, containing a peristyle, supported on an arched 
substruction. The capitals of the pillars are ornamented with 
the leaf and flower of the tobacco plant. Light is admitted 
through a cupola in the small surmounting dome. The latter 
is broken by caissons, enriched by the tobacco blossom. 

■■p 




CHAMBER OF THE SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATUS. I^cc .Cii^c 04.; 



11. Ascent of Dome.— At the head of the first flight on 
the r. is the entrance to the battery and electric gas-lighting 
apparatus. (See Attic story, 3, 4, and 5.) 

Continuing the ascent, an opportunity is afforded of studying the mechanism 
of the immense structure overhead. A small door at the top of an intricate 
flight of steps opens between the inner and outer shells. Above a doorway 
opens under an imposing peristyle of 36 iron columns. The last ascent is by 
an abrupt flight of steps over the inner shell, to the platform beneath the can- 
opy, affording a closer view of Brumidi's allegory. See Page 8a. This platform 
makes a fine whispering gallery. Another flight of steps leads to the crowning 
platform, from which the most extensive view of the city may be had. 

Panoramic View of the City. — With the assistance of the 
maps of the city and District, the stranger will be able to ac- 
quaint himself with the most prominent features in the view. 



84 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

12. Vestibule of the Supreme Court. — A door from the ves- 
tibule, of Greek design, opens into a second vestibule, from 
which, on the right or east, opens the main entrance to the 
Supreme Court. Opposite is a prostyle of Potomac marble. 

13. Supreme Court United States — {Open to visitors every 
day, except Sunday.) The apartment occupied by this tribu- 
nal, formerly the Senate Chamber, is semi-circular, with a 
rather flat dome, enriched with square caissons in stucco, and 
circular apertures to admit light. The chamber is 75 ft. great- 
est length or diameter, 45 ft. greatest width, and 45 ft. high. 
On the E. side a screen of Grecian Ionic columns of breccia, 
or variegated Potomac marble, with capitals of white Italian 
marble, modeled after those of the Temple of Minerva, pol- 
ished, extends along the back of the range of seats of the 
Justices. These columns, with the entablature, support a 
gallery. The seats of the Justices are raised several feet 
above the floor, and are ranged behind a low screen, which 
answers the purpose of desks. The Chief Justice occupies 
the centre seat. The officers of the court have desks at either 
end and at the foot of the Justices' platform. The floor is 
beautifully carpeted, and tables and chairs are placed within 
the bar for the accommodation of those having cases before 
the court. Outside the rail are seats for visitors. See Pa ge s 3 - 

Against the west wall are marble consoles supporting busts of the departed 
Chief Justices : — John Jay, by John Frazee, 1831, $400; John Rutledge, by A. 
Gait, 1857, $800; Oliver Ellsworth, . by Hezekiah Augur, 1834, $400 ; John 
Marshall, by John Frazee, 1836, $500; Roger B.Taney, (after Rhinehart) 
A. L. St. Gaudens, 1876, $700 ; Salmon P. Chase, (from a mask taken in 
1857) T. D. Jones, 1875, #1000. 

It was designed in the original plan of the city to erect a separate building 
for the uses of the Judiciary, and for that purpose Judiciary Square was set 
apart. Nothing however was done- In February, 1801, the Supreme Court 
ot the United States was assigned to the room immediately below that now oc- 
cupied by it. The present apartment was occupied in December, i860. 

The times for holding the sessions of the Supreme Court have been subjected 
to frequent changes by statutes since 1789. The annual session now com- 
mences on tne second Monday of October in each year. The adjournment 
usually takes place in May following. The daily sessions are from 12 noon 
to 4 p. m. The Justices, wearing their judicial robes, enter from the N. door 
of the chamber, and are formally announced by the Marshal or deputy. The 
people in the room rise and remain standing till the Justices are seated. The 
opening of the court is then proclaimed by a proper officer. 

When the court-room was occupied by the Senate the President's chair stood 
in a niche in the screen of columns, and was raised on a platform. In front 
and lower were the desks of the Secretary and Chief Clerk. The entablature 
of the screen supported a gallery, in front of which was another, following 
the circle of the room, and supported by iron columns, with bronzed 
caps, surmounted by a gilt iron balustrade. Against tne wall over the E. gal- 
lery was a fine painting of Washington, by Charles Wilson Peale, richly 
framed and draped. The President's chair standing on the line of the diame- 
ter of the circle, formed the centre of the radiating aisles, between which, in 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



85 



concentric curves, were arranged the Senators' desks. There were accommo- 
dations for 64 Senators In the rear a railing enclosed the bar of the Senate. 
Outside were sofas for privileged visitors. It was in this Hall that Webster, 
Calhoun, Clay, and their cotemporaries, made their great speeches. 

Originally there was an upper gallery on the E. side, supported by an attic 
colonnade, but this was removed in 1828 to admit more light. The ap- 

proaches to the chamber and galleries were exceedingly dark and gloomy. 
At night a gas chandelier diffused light. On the W. side of the building, 
across the main vestibule, were the offices of the Secretary of fhe Senate, now 
occupied by the officers of the court. The two rooms on the N. side were as- 
signed to the President and Vice President — now the robing rooms. 

Chief Justices.— 1789, John Jay, N. Y. ; 1795, John Rutledge, S. C, re- 
jected; 1796, William Cushing Mass., declined ; 1796 Oliver Ellsworth, Conn., 
1800, John Jay, N. Y. ; 1801, John Marshall, Va. ; 1836, Roger B. Taney, Md.; 
1864, Salmon P. Chase, Ohio; 1874, Morrison R. Waite, Ohio. 



The Judiciary. — 

The yudicial poTver 
of the United States, 
under Constitution, 
is vested in one Su- 
preme Court and 
such inferior courts 
as Congress may de- 
termine. United 
States Judges can 
only be removed by 
impeachment. They 
are appointed by the 
President and con- 
firmed by the Sen- 
ate. The jurisdic- 
tion of the Supreme 
Court is confined to 
civil cases between 
states or citizens 
thereof, questions 
under treaties or be- 
tween aliens and 
exercises appellate 
and revisory juris- 
diction in certain 
cases. 




14. Robing Koom. — In this apartment the Chief Justice of 
the Supreme Court and his Associates attire themselves in 
their court robes, in which thev sit on the supreme bench. 

On the walls are portraits of Chief Justices, John Jay, by Henry Peter 
Gray, 1813, after Gilbert Stuart, 1793, represented in the robe with scarlet fac- 
ings worn by the degree, LL. D., University of Edinburgh, conferred on him. 
presented 1876, by John Jay, his grandson. John Marshall, by Rembrandt 
Peale, 1825, presented to Chief Justice Chase by the bar of New York, by whom 
it was bequeathed, 1873, to the Supreme Court of the United States. R. B. 
Taney, by J. G. P. Healy, 1858, #800, taken from life, 85th year, presented. 
1876, by the bar and clerk of the court. 

From the Robing Room the Justices, in their judicial robes, 
at the hour of meeting of the court, cross the corridor, and, 
passing through the 



&6 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

15. Justices' Passage and Entrance, enter the Supreme 
Court Room, where they are properly announced by the 
Marshal or his deputy. i 

16, 17, and 18. Offices of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of 
the United States. The entrance is from the vestibule, (12.) 

19. Steps to the Basement and Crypt. (See basement story.) 

20. Marshal's Office of the Supreme Court of the Unnited States. 

21. Steps to the Senate Library. (See Nos. 6, 7, and 8, Attic Story.) 

22. Corridor connecting the centre or old Capitol building with the Senate 
Extension. The main door to the floor of the Senate Chamber is directly 
opposite. The cornice is artistically executed, and the panel of the ceiling is 
formed by a fasces border in stucco. Walls tinted. 

NORTH OR SENATE EXTENSION. 

23. Southern Corridor. — Connects the eastern and western corridors. This 
corridor has a vaulted ceiling of three circular arches, with ; ntervening bands 
and groined arches, chastely decorated in stucco, and tinted. 

Official Telegraph. — At the western end of this corridor is the Senate office 
of the official telegraph, established 1873 by G. C. Maynard, under an act of 
Congress; connects the Capitol, the Government Printing Office, and Executive 
Departments^ and all the isolated Government offices in the city. The wires 
are carried from the building across the Capitol grounds by means of a subter- 
ranean cable, in order not to mar the prospect. ( The Official Telephone office 
is in corridor 22. 

24. The Eastern Corridor leads to the Eastern Grand Staircase (28,) Sen- 
ate Vestibule (30,) and Reception Room (34). 

25. Western Corridor, to Western Grand Staircase (51,) Senate Offices, and 
Lobby. The ceiling to the Lobby consists of barrel arches and lunettes, and 
paneled walls, the whole tinted and enriched with flowers in stucco. 

26 and 27. Senate Committee on Finance. — Without special decoration. 

28. Eastern Grand Staircase.— This leads to the La- 
dies', Senators' Family, and Diplomatic Galleries in the 
Attic Story. Is constructed of highly-polished Tennessee 
marble. The columns have bronze capitals. The ascent 
from the main floor is by a broad flight of 16 white marble 
steps, which divide at the first landing, the rest of the as- 
cent being by a double flight of 18 steps. Overhead is a 
stained-glass skylight, set in an iron frame, surrounded by 
an iron casing of trellis work, resting on a heavy cornice 
of marble. At the foot of the steps, in a niche, stands the 
semi-heroic stat%e of Benjamin Franklin, of Pa., the philoso 
pher, marble, Hiram Powers, 1862, $10,000. Against the 
E. wall, over the first landing, is the painting of Perry's 
Victory over the British near Put-in -Bav, Lake Erie, Sept. 
10, 1813, by W. H. Powell, of Ohio, 1873, cost $25,000. 

The painting represents the Commodore transferring his flag from the Law- 
rence, which had been disabled, to the Niagara. In the boat are the Commo- 
dore, with his little brother, and a crew of brave seamen. The perilous v>y- 



1 KirvCll'AL STORY. 



87 



age lasted fifteen minutes, during which time the English commander concen- 
trated his fire upon the party. When Perry hoisted his pennant on the Niagara 
the American fleet was inspired with fresh courage, and by a prompt move- 
ment broke the British line and won the day. Perry was but twenty-seven 
years of age when he gained this signal victory. The best view of this paint- 
ing is from the balustrade at the top of the staircase. A double stairway, 




THE EASTERN GRAND STAIRCASE 

which unites at the first landing below, leads beneath the arched support and 
massive blocking of the upper staircase to the basement. These grand stair- 
cases, two in the Senate and two in corresponding positions in the House Ex- 
tensions of the Capitol, are among the most beautiful features of the Capitol. 
A full description of each will be found in its proper place. 



88 



CAPITOL INTEitli'U. 



29 Senate Bronze Door ( Main entrance to the Senate wing), was 
put in place in 1868, executed by Thomas Crawford, 14£ ft. 
high, 9} ft. wide, weighs 14,000 lbs, cast by James T. Ames, 
Chicopee, Mass., cost $6,000 for model, $50,494 for casting. 
Tlie acanthus, cotton-boll, maize, grapes, entwining vine 
and cap, on elaborate brackets, enrich the frame. The his- 
torical subjects represented in alto relievo, are (See Key.) 





7\Tr 



VI 



IV 





7! 



ii 



in 




SENATE BBONZE DOOR. 

I. Battle of Bunker II ill and Death of Warren, June, 1775. 

II. Battle of Monmouth, June, 1778, and Rebuko*>f General Lee, who meditated 
betraying the American Army. 

III. Battle of Yorktown, October, 1781. Hamilton's Capture of the Redoubt. 

IV. Welcome of Washington at Trenton, April, 1789, on his way to New York 
to assume the office of President of the United States. This panel contains por- 
traits of the sculptor, his wife, and three children, and of Rogers, the sculptor of 
the Main Door. 

V. Inauguration of Washington, First President of the United States, in New 
York, April 30, 1789. The principal figures in this panel are portraits, including 
John Adams, Vice President, on his right; Chancellor Livingstone administers the 
oath; Mr. Otis, Secretary of the Senate, presented the Bible. The other distinguished 
personages represented are Alexander Hamilton, Generals Knox and St. Clair, Roger 
Sherman, and Baron Steuben. 

VI. Laying of the Corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States at Washing- 
ton, September 18, 1793. The prominent figures are likenesses. 

The order to Mr. Crawford contemplated tuo doors, one for the E. Portico 
of each wing. The sculptor had proceeded no further than to complete th» 
drawing of his designs and the work of his models in clay, when he was over 
taken by death. The work, however, was completed t> y W. H. Khiuenart, oi 
Maryland, an assistant in the studio of the sculptor at Rome. The models 
were shipped to the United States in 1863. They were somewhat damaged in 



PRINCIPAL STOKY. 



89 



removal, but were restored by Silas Mosman, ot Massachusetts, under whose 
superintendence they were cast. The mechanical execution of this work is 
considered in every respect equal to the great Door, and establishes the skill 
of American bronze founders in competition with those of Europe. 

Above the door, resting on a cap supported by massive 
brackets, are two reclining female figures, in American mar- 
ble by Crawford, representing Justice and History. _■ ' 




THE GRAND CORRIDOR AND MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE SENATE CHA.MbtK. 

(See No. 23, p. 86.) 

30. Senate Vestibule. — This door opens into a vestibule 
consisting of a colonnade of 16 fluted marble columns, 
with capitals of acanthus and tobacco leaves. The col- 
umns are disposed in couples, and equally divided on 
either side with corresponding pilasters. 

The ceiling is composed of massive blocks of highly-polished marble, form- 
ing panels, three of which are provided with stained glass. The walls are 
scagliola imitation of Sienna marble, and are broken at suitable intervals into 
niches, with bases of Tennessee marble. The floor is tesselated in white and 
blue marble. At the opposite end the door of bird's-eye maple, with bronze 
enrichments, and set in a bronze frame, leads to the Senate Chamber. 

31. Official Reporters' Room, used by the reporters of the debates and 
proceedings of the Senate. The ceiling is frescoed in the Pompeian style. 

32. Senate Post Office. — This beautiful apartment is 



9() CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

fitted with polished maple cases and other conveniences 
for the Senate mails. This room was originally intended 
for the Library of the Senate. 

The vaulted ceiling is embellished wilh frescoes by Brumidi, the principal 
pieces representing History, Geography, Physics, au'd the Telegraph. Three 
allegorical figures support a tasteful centre-piece, from which drops a chande- 
lier. The walls are finished in oil and gilt. 

33. The Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Sen- 
ate- — On the walls are allegories of Seces-iwii and Peace. 

34. Senate Keception Boom.— The vestibule opens into the 
Senate Reception Room, a brilliant salon about 60 ft. long, 
with a vaulted ceiling divided into two arches, that on the N. 
being groined, and is divided into four sections, in which are 
allegorical figures in fresco: N"., Liberty; S., Plenty; W., 
War; E., Peace. The S. half of the ceiling consists of a cir- 
cular arch, broken by deep caissons, arranged in concentric 
circles. The fresco in the centre represents youthful figures 
in a vignette of clouds. Outside the circle are allegorical fig- 
ures in fresco : NE., Prudence; SE., Justice; SW., Temper- 
ance ; NW., Strength. All these frescoes were executed by 
Brumidi, in 1856. The ceiling is heavily gilded throughout, 
and from it is suspended a fine chandelier. The walls are 
finished in tint, and enriched with stucco and gilt. They are 
divided into five panels, with medallion centres for portraits 
of illustrious citizens. Each medallion is surrounded by 
wreaths, and is surmounted by an eagle. The base of the 
walls is scagliola, in imitation of Potomac and Tennessee 
marbles. Under the arch in the S. wall is a well-executed 
centre-piece in oil, by Brumidi, representing Washington in 
consultation with Jefferson, his Secretary of State, and Ham- 
ilton, Secretary of the Treasury. On either side is a.medal- 
lion yet unfilled. In the N. wall of this magnificent apart- 
ment, between the window's, is a mirror. The floor is of 
encaustic tiles, finely laid, and with a beautifully-wrought 
star as a centre-piece. The room is furnished in rosewood, 
with damask and lace curtains. In winter the floor is richly 
carpeted. The mantel is a beautiful specimen of workman- 
ship. 

35. Bronze Staircases, formed of entwining vines andfoliage, 
relieved with eagles, deer, and cupids. A similar staircase 
occupies a corresponding place on the W. side of the lobby. 
These, including two connecting with the lobby of the Hall 
of Representatives in the S. Extension, cost nearly $22,500. 
They are elaborate and artistic specimens of bronze work, 
and in a part of the building too dark to enable their merits 
to be fully appreciated. They were manufactured by Archer, 
Warner & Miskey, of Philadelphia Baudin, artist, 1858-'59. 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



01 



36. Vice President's Boom.— The door on the r. within the 
Lobby opens into the room of the President of the Senate, 
generally known as the Vice Presidents Room. It is a well- 
furnished apartment, with plain stuccoed ceilings and tinted 
walls. In this room is the original of Rembrandt Pealt's 
painting of Washington, from life, purchased by the Senate 
in 1832* for $2 000. 




37. Senate Lobby. — During the sessions of the Senate, admissions to the 
Lobby can only be obtained through a Senator. When the Senate is not in ses- 
sion the Lobby is open to the public. The Lobby is a vaulted passage, with gilt 
panels and cornice. Two doors lead to the floor of the chamber, and opposite, 
two doors into the "marble room." 

38. The Senate Chamber.— This magnificent apartment, 
first occupied by the Senate January 4, 1859, is in the N. ex- 



92 



CAPITOL INTERIOR. 



tension — has entrances from the corridors on the E., S M and 
W., and two from the lobby on the N. Length, 113£ ft.; 
width, 80f ft,; height, 36 ft. ; area of floor, 9,136 sq. ft. The 
Chamber proper is 83 ft. long and 51 ft. wide. On the E., 
W„ and S. sides are the cloak rooms for Senators, and on the 
N. the lobby. Over these are the galleries, with seats for 
1200 persons, rising and receding in tiers to the corridors 
of the second floor. 

The N. Gallery above the chair of the President of the Senate, is devoted to 
reporters of the press , with 40 desks, and seats for as many more. Opposite 
the reporters' is the diplomatic gallery. The galleries on the E. are devoted 
exclusively to ladies and gentlemen accompanying them ; a portion for the ex- 
clusive use of the families of Senators. Those on the W. are for gentlemen. 
F 'or plan of galleries see Diagram attic story, 15 to 21. 

The Desks of the Senators, two for each State, are arranged in concentric 
semi-circles, and made of the richest mahogany. Some are almost as old as the 
Senate itself. The President' s "chair" occupies a raised dais, aiso of mahog- 
any. The gavel rests on the desk in front. The Secretary of the Senate, Leg- 
islative, Chief and Minute Clerks, beginning on the President's left, occupy the 
desk in front, and the two official reporters immediately in front of them. The 
Sergeaut-at-arms on the left, and Door-keeper on the right of the chair, sit at 
the foot of the dais. 

They?(?(?r is raised about 3 in. for each semicircle of desks, and is pierced by 
numerous registers. These are fed from an air-chamber beneath the floor, 
and supplied by fans and steam-coils in the basement with moistened air tem- 
pered from 68° to 70 winter, from 8° to io° below the outside air in summer, 
and regulated by thermometers and hygrometers in different parts of the cham- 
ber, under the chief of the ventilating department. The contaminated air passes 
through the trellis work in the ceiling. (See Ventilating Departvient, page 113.) 

The ceiling consists of immense iron girders amd transverse pieces, forming 
deep panels, glazed each with a centre-piece symbolic of the Union, the Army 
and Navy, Progress, and the Mechanical Arts. The outer row, with trellised 
centres, are for ventilation, and outside of these are deep caissons and cir- 
cles, with a star in each. The frame rests on a heavy iron cornice. The iron 
work throughout is bronzed with gilt decorations. The walls are richly painted, 
those supporting the galleries being laid off in panels. The back of the galle- 
ries are pierced by doors on each side. The doors are of bird's-eye maple, elab- 
orately finished with foliated bronze ornaments. Niches for statuary are also 
sunk in the walls. The iron work was done by Janes, Beebe & Co. 

The hall by day is lighted through the paneled ceiling by means of the skylight 
in the roof. At night innumerable jets, ranged above the ceiling around the glass 
panels, and supplied with gas and ignited by electricity, diffuse a soft light 
throughout the Chamber. 

The public are permitted on the floor of the Chamber 
when the Senate is not in session. The regular hour of 
meeting is 12 noon every day except Sunday, but the time 
can be changed and sessions fixed and adjournments or- 
dered on its own motion. The persons entitled to the 
privileges of the floor sCre designated by resolution of the 
Senate. 



CAPITOL INTERIOR. 



93 



39. Oloak Rooms— Beneath the E., W., and S. galleries 
are cloak room? for the exclusive use of Senators. 




THE "MAKBLE" OH SKNAXUKb' KBTIRING ROOM. 

40. Marble Boom — From the lobby pass through a small 
' passage or vestibule into the Marble or Senate Retiring Room. 
I his elegant apartment is 36 ft. long, 21 J ft. wide, and 19^ ft. 
high. The ceiling rests upon 4 Corinthian columns of Italian 
marble, and consists of massive polished blocks of white mar- 
ble, forming deep panels. The walls throughout are of hia-hly- 
pohshed Tennessee marble. In the panels of the walls are 
large plate-glass mirrors. Those at the ends produce a strikin o- 
effect. In the E. and W. walls are niches. Two of these 
contain heads of Indian chiefs, executed in marble. The floors 
are of encaustic tiles. The room is handsomely furnished, 
and, without question, is the finest apartment of the kind in 
the world. In the E. vestibule is a small bronze bust of 
Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, 1861-1865, 
presented by Albert De Groot, of No w York 



94 PRINCIPAL STORY. 

41. President's Boom.— Leaving the lobby by the W. door, 
on the r. is the President's Boom, assigned to the use of the 
President of the United States on his visits to the Capitol. 
This room is rarely used except on the last days of the session 
of Congress, when the President, with his secretaries and 
Cabinet ministers, assemble there to expedite the business of 
legislation, the President signing such bills passed by the 
Senate and House of Representatives as meet his approval. 

The walls and ceiling of this room are richly and appropri- 
ately decorated. On the S. wall, under the arch of the ceil- 
ing, is a portrait of Washington — a copy from Rembrandt 
Peale's— with a reclining female figure on either side : that on 
the r. representing Victory, who holds a shield, bearing the 
inscription, Boston, Trenton, Princeton, Monmouth, and 
Yorktown. The figure on the 1. Peace, with a laurel wreath. 
On the four walls are medallion portraits of Washington's 
first Cabinet: S., Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State; E., 
Henry Knox, Secretary of War, and Alexander Hamilton, 
Secretary of the Treasury ; W., Edmund Randolph, Attorney 
General, aad S. Osgood, Postmaster General. Under the 
cornice are a lumber of small copper-colored medallions, rep- 
resenting the coats of arms of the States. The rest of the 
walls are artistically decorated in arabesques. Overhead are 
four corner -pieces in fresco: the first of Columbus, with a 
globe and early instruments of navigation, representing Dis- 
covery ; likeness from a portrait in Mexico. Diagonally oppo- 
site, Americus Vespuccius, with charts and telescope, Explo- 
ration, from a painting in Florence. William Brewster, with 
an open Bible, representing Religion; and diagonally opposite, 
Benjamin Franklin, with manuscript and printing-press, or 
History. Four medallion pieces between these represent 
Religion, Liberty, Legislation, and Executive. The medal- 
lion from which the chandelier is suspended is enriched with 
three infant figures, supporting an American flag. The ceilings 
are further embellished. The entire decoration^ by Brumidi. 
The room is the most richly decorated in the United States. 
The floors are beautifully tiled. There are three large mir- 
rors in the walls. In winter the room is richly carpeted and 
furnished. 

42. Senate Committee on Enrolled Bills 

43. Closets. 

44. Senate Committee on Appropriations. — Tinted walls. 



CAPITOL IXTERIOK. 



D5 



•45. Elevator. — : for the use of Senators, runs from the basement to the attic 
Story, and is fitted up with a screw and double engine: cost $10,000. 

46 to 50. Offices of the Senate. — 46. Engrossing and enrolling. 47. Chief 
and 48. Executive clerks. 49. Secretary of the Senate. 50. Financial clerk. . 

51. Western Grand Staircase.— Of white marble, leads 
to the gentlemen's galleries. The highly polished entabla- 
tures, steps, balustrades, columns and. capitals viewed from 
the landing leading to the basement, strike the eye with its 
magnificence. The design and dimensions are the same 
as the eastern staircase. See page 87. 




THE PRESIDENT S ROOM. 

At the foot of the staircase, in a niche, is the statue of yohn Hancock, Presi- 
dent of the Continental Congress, which signed and promulgated the Declara- 
tion ol Independence, 1776; semi-heroic ; executed in i860, in marble, by Ho- 
ratio Stone; cost $5,500. 

Against the west wall is the painting of the Storming of Chapultepec, Sept. 
13, 1847, by th e American Army, under Gen. Scott, by James Walker, N. Y., 
from sketches in the field ; ordered i860 ; cost $6,600. The castle, one of the 
defenses of the city of Mexico, crowned an eminence 900 ft. high, and was taken 
by means of scaling ladders. General Quitman and several of the officers of the 
advance division are in consultation. The batteries at the foot of the hill were 
taken, and the approach to the city by the aqueduct lay open. The hillside 
is already occupied by the United States rifles. Gen. Quitman, mounted, 
appears on the h- of the painting. Gen. Shields is without his coat, and 
wounded. Near at hand are Lieuts. Wilcox and Towers, of the engineers. 
On the 1. stands a section of Drum's battery. In the rear, advancing 



96 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

to thesupport of Casey's troops, are the Pennsylvania, New York, and South 
Carolina volunteers, bearing their State colors, and commanded by Geary, 
Baxter, and Gladden. Xieontenca, the Mexican commander, is killed. Gen. 
Persifor F. Smith, with the rifles, confronts the enemy's breastworks, and 
points to the retreating Mexicans, who are fleeing by the aqueduct. 

CKNTRAL BUILDING— SOUTH WING. 

52. South Door of Rotunda, leading to the National Statuary Hullzxai 
I'ouse 0/ Representatives. 

53. Vestibule, crowned by a dome and cupola, and modeled from a Greek 
temple. The capitals of the columns are ornamented with the leaf of the cot- 
ton plant, instead of the acanthus. Theflowc of the cotton plant also enriches 
the centre of the caissons. This vestibule cortesponds with that on the N. side. 
The door on the 1. leads to the basement staircase, (19,) very beautiful in 
design. 

54 and 55. Document Room, House of Representatives. — These are for 
the supply of bills and documents for the current use of members of the House. 

56. Stationery Room of the House of Representatives. 

57. House Committee on Banking and Currency. — When representa- 
tives occupied the old Hall, now the Hall of Statuary, this room was set apart 
for the use of the Speaker. It was to this room that John Quincy Adams was 
conveyed after he fell at his seat in the House, February 23, 1848, and it was 
here that he died, two days after. A marble console on the west wail supports 
an excellent bust of Adams, by J. C. King, 1845,$ .placed here in com- 
memoration of this sad event. 






lilSifflllSIll 

Houdon's WashihGTOH — Historical Clock — David's Jeffeksun. ' 

68. National Statuary Hall. — This magnificent Hall, for- 
merly used as the place of meeting of the House of Kepre- 
sentatives, is Grecian in design, having been planned and 
adapted, by Latrobe, after the remains of the Theatre at Ath' 
ens. It consists of a semi-circle of 96 ft. chord. The ends 
of the prostyle and peristyle are separated by a wide project- 
ing surface of freestone, which rises to the top of the order 
and supports a segment arch, which corresponds with the 
segment of the vaulted ceiling that crowns the hall and ends 
against it. To the top pf the entablature blocking is 35 ft., 
and to the apex of the domed ceiling 57 ft. The semi-peri- 



CAPITOL INTERIOR. 



97 



style or circular colonnade on the N. is composed of 14 columns and 2 antae, 
of the Corinthian order; the shafts of solid blocks of variegated marble or brec- 
cia, were quarried from the banks of the Potomac above the city. The bases 
are freestone. The capitals are of Carrara marble executed in I taly and de- 
signed after those in the temple of Jupiter btator at Kome-Hadfield sa y*. after 
the capitals of the Lantern of Demos at Athens. The entablature is of the pro- 




Gkeen, Williams, Trumbull, Sherman, Clinton 

portions used in the former temple, ornamented with dentils and modillons, 
enriched with leaves and roses. The floor is of marble. A paneled dome 
springs overhead. The apex of the dome is pierced by a circular aperture, 
crowned by a lantern, serving the double purpose of light and ventilation. The 
dome is similar to that of the Pantheon at Rome. On the S. side of the hall, 
forming the loggia, are 8 columns and 2 antse of ihe same style as the peristyle. 
Over the entablature of this colonnade springs a beautiful 72 ft. chord. On the 




Livingston, Winthrop, Adams, Allen, King. 

blocking of the cornice beneatn is a. figure of Liberty, in plaster, by Caucici 
a pupil ot Lanova, 1829, originally intended for execution in marble The 
figure, seen from the galleries in front, produces a striking effect. On the r is 
the irustrum of a column, around which a serpent, the emblem of wisdom, is en- 
twining itself, and at the feet of the.figure is an American eagle. In the frieze 
ot the entablature, under this figure, is sculptured an eagle in stone, with out 
spread wings, the work of Valaperti. Over the N. door stands a clock in m~ 



y£ PRINCIPAL STORY. 

ble, by Chas. Franzoni, 1819. History, her drapery floating in the air, is rep 
resented as standing in the winged car of Time and recording passing events, 
The car is placed on a globe, on which, in basso relievo, are cut the signs of 
the zodiac. The hours are marked on the tace of the wheel of the car. 

The hall aifords some acoustic, phenomena, also in the west 
column near the south door, can be distinguished human 
faces, all will be explained gratis by the attendant. 

When the Hall was occupied, the Speaker's chair stood on the S. side, upon 
an open rostrum about four feet above the floor, enclosed by a bronze balustrade. 
Rich crimson curtains fell in elegant folds from the capitals of the columns, 
and were separated so as to form luxurious draperies as a backgronnd to the 
chair and rostrum. Below and in front of the Speaker's rostrum stood the 
Clerk's desk, raised on a variegated socle. Upon this stood a rich mahogany 
table, with damask silk curtains. Between the columns were sofas and accom- 
modations for twenty reporters. The members' desks of mahogany, with arm 
chairs, were arranged in concentric circles, for 232 members, the aisles forming 
radii from the centre. In the rear of the outer row of desks was a bronzed iron 
railing with curtains, constituting the bar of the House. Outside of this was 
the lobby. The gallery over the loggia was set apart for the ladies, having 
cushioned seats for the accommodation of 200 persons ; the general gallery 
■would seat 500. The panels on either side of the ladies' gallery contained 
full-length portraits of Washington by Vanderlyn, and Lafayette by Ary Schef- 
fer, a present from the distinguished Frenchman upon his last visit to the 
United States. Under these were copies of the Declaration of Independence, 
in frames emblematically ornamented. At night the Hall was lighted by "solar 
gas'' from a chandelier at the apex of the dome. This Hall was occupied by 
Congress for 32 years. During the first days of the Rebellion, 1861-65, troops 
were quartered in it. In 1862 it was used as a hospital for the sick and wounded 
of the army, and in 1864, by act of Congress, was set apart for its present 
appropriate purpose. 

THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF STATUES. 

The House of Representatives having taken possession 
of its new quarters in the Capitol in 1857. the ''old" Hall 
fell into neglect. In 1864, Congress, desirous of perpetuat- 
ing its historic associations, authorized the President of the 

United States to invite each State to furnish statues, in marble or bronze, not 
exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who had been 
citizens thereof and illustrious for their historic renown, or for distinguished 
civic or military service, as the States determined worthy of national commem- 
oration, when so furnished to be placed in the old Hall of the House of Repre- 
sentatives, in the Capitol of the United States, which was set apart for a. Nation- 
al Statuary Hall. 

The State contributions are given in the order received 
by the government. 

Rhode Island. — 1871. Nathaniel Greene, marble, life-size, H. K. Brown, 
1869, attired in full regimentals of a Major-General in the Continental army, re- 
presented as pledging the service of his sword to his country. 

Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, and promoter of civil and re- 
ligious liberty in America; marble, life-size, Franklin Simmons, 1870, robed in 
the dress of the early colonist. The pedestals are of Rhode Island red granite. 

Connecticut. — 1872. yonathan Trumbull, an eminent patriot of the Rev- 
olution, and from whom the term " Brother Jonathan" originated on account 
of his skill in expedients to meet the necessities of the Continental Govern- 
ment. Marble, heroic, C. B. Ives, 1869. 

Roger Lherman, one of the committee to draft the Declaration of Indepen- 
dence. Marble, heroic, C. B. Ives. 1870; represented in Continental civil attire 
The Pedestals are of Vermont mat ble. 



CAPITOL INiLKIOtt. M 

New York. — 1873. George Clinton, a signer of the Declaration of Indepen 
dence, General of the Revolution Governor ot New York and Vice President of 
the United States. Bronze, life-size, H. K. Brown, 1873. Robert Wood & 
Co., Phila., founders: represented in Continental military dress. 

Robert R. Livingston, First Chancellor of New York, who administered the 
oath of office to George Washington upon his inauguration as President of the 
United States, March, 1789. Bronze, life-size, E. D. Palmer, 1874. Barbe- 
dienne, Paris, founders, represented in the chancellor's robes, and holding by his 
side the treaty for the cession of Louisiana by France to the United States, 
which he successfully consummated. The robe and lace work is artistic. 

Massachusetts. — 1876. John Winthrop, first Governor of Massachusetts, 
landing with the charter of 1630. Marble, semi-heroic, Richard S. Greenough, 
1875, represented in the costume of the times. 

Samuel Adams, an early advocate of liberty. Marble, semi-heroic, Anne 
Whitney, 1876, represented in colonial dress and protesting to the Royal Gov- 
ernor against the presence of British troops, using the memorable words : 
" Night is approaching, an immediate answer is expected, both regiments or 
none." March 6, 1770. 

Vermont. — 1876. Ethan Allen. Marble, heroic, L.C.Mead, i875,represented 
in the uniform of a Continental officer, with drawn sword and flashing eye, de- 
manding the surrender of Ticonderoga in the name of" the Great Jehovah and 
the Continental Congress." 

"Jacob Collamer, 1880, a forcible orator on constitutional questions, Post- 
master-General, 1S49, and Senator of the United States, 1855-64. Marble sem— 
heroic, Preston Powers, 1879. Represented in the costume of the times, 
addressing the Senate, left hand resting on a pedestal bearing the State arms. 

Maine. — William King, 1880, an early advocate of the separation of Maine 
.1 id Vlassachusetts in 1819, and first Governor of Maine, itf.>j. Marble se.mi- 
■ r- iic, Franklin Simmons, 1877. Represented in top boots and Spanish cloak, 

• t 'lolds in his hand a roll of parchment, the Constitution of the mate. 



In addition to tnese State contributions the Hall contains a plaster copy of 
the statue oi George Washington, ex Richmond, life-size, by Houdon, 1788 re- 
presenting the father of his country in civic attire, with a staff in his hand, his 
cioak and sword resting on a bundle of lictors' rods, and with a rude plow in 
the rear; the superb semi-heroic statues of Alexander Hamilton, marble, by 
Horatio Stone, 1868, $10,000 ; the first Secretary of the Treasury. General 
E D. Baker, killed in the rebellion. Marble, by Horatio Stone, 1875, $10,000 ; 
representing him as a Senator of the United States ; and Thomas Jefferson, 
bronze, by the celebrated French sculptor, P. T. David D'Angers, 1833, Fondu 
a Paris, par Honore Conon et ses deux Fils ; representing the author of the 
Declaration as just having signed that instrument of American liberty; the 
statue was presented by Uriah Phillips Levy, of theU. S. N., 1833, but was 
not accepted until 1874. The pedestal is a superb piece of work, in four vari- 
eties of marble, executed by Struthers, of Philadelphia. The other works are 
a statue of Abraham Lincoln, marble, Vinnie Ream, 1866, $15,000; busts 
of Abraham Lincoln, marble, Mrs. Sarah Fisher Ames, 1868, $2,000; T. 
Kosciuszko, marble, H. D. Saunders, 1857, $5°° ? an d Thomas Crwvford, 
scuiptc by h ; mse!f. 

Of the few paintings are a Washington, by Gilbert Stuart, 1796, painted from 
life for the Chesttnut family of South Carolina, purchased 1 875, $1, 200 ; and two 



CaSltonVby Chester Harding', 18-,"$— -Vand Joshua Giddings, Miss — 
Ransom, 18— ; a mosaic of Abraham Lincoln, by Salviati. oi Venice, a man- 
ufacturer. 

59. Corridor, connecting- the S. wing of the centre or old 



100 PRINCIPAL STORY. 

building with the S. Extension, occupied by the House of 
Representatives. This is the same as No. 22. Opposite is 
the main door to the floor of the House of Representatives. 

SOUTH, OR HOUSE EXTENSION. 

This portion of the building corresponds, in its general fea- 
tures, with the Senate Extension, the larger size of the Hal] 
of Representatives causing simply a narrowing of the outer 
corridors. 

60. Northern Corridor, beautifully designed, especially the ceiling, which 
is diversified with lunettes and circular and groined arches. 

61. Eastern Corridor, leading to the Eastern Grand Staircase and House 
Lobby. At the S. end of this corridor is the office of the Government telegraph, 
connected, by means of wires under the building, with the office and subterran- 
ean cable in the N. Extension. (See No. 23.) 

6a. Western Corridor, leading to the Western Grand Staircase and the 
offices and Lobby of the House. 

63. House Committee on Military Affairs. — Here is a series of seventeen 
paintings, exccuteu in i87o-'7i, by Lieut-Co!. Seth Eastman, a retired officer 
of the U. S. A , representing someot the principal forts ot the United States, 
the Military Academy at West Point, and Fort Sumpter before and after the 
bombardment. A case of breech-loading arms used in the army stands against 
the west wall. 

64. Eastern Grand Staircase, leading to the galle ries. (For their divi- 
sion, see Plan oj attic story, Nos. 50 to 55.) The staircase is of Tennessee 
marble, bronze capitals and white marble steps, and in every particular of de- 
sign, measurement, and execution similar to that in the same position in the 
Senate Extension. In the niche it the foot is the superb Statue of jfejferson, 
by Hiram Powers, 1863; cost $io,ooo f) executed in Italy. Against the E. wall, 
is the painting of President Lincoln signing the Proclamation of Emancipa- 
tion of the negroes, Sept. 22, 1862,. by Frank P. Carpenter, cost $25,000; pre- 
sented to the United States, by Mary Elizabeth Thompson, Feb. 12, 1878. {See 
engraving, grand staircase, page 87. 

65. Main Door. — This very prominent entrance is still without the embel 
lishments of art. Mr. Crawford, the designer of the bronze door of the N. 
Extension, at the same time received an order for one for the S. The death of 
the sculptor, who had already completed the designs, prevented the execution 
of work on the second door. The models, however, were completed by his 
pupil, Rhinehart, for which the latter received $9,000, but have been since their 
completion stowed away in a dark vault, near the Undercroft. The door will 
represent scenes in the life of Washington. 

66. Vestibule. — This beautiful vestibule consists of 8 fluted columns in 
couples, two on either side. The capitals are enriched with leaves of acanthus, 
tobacco and corn. The ceilings are paneled, and the walls tinted and broken 
by 8 niches, with Tennessee marble bases. 

67. House Committee on Ways and Means. — A fine department, richly 
decorated in the renaissance style, diversified with American shields, foliage, 
birds and fruit. 

68. House Committee on Appropriations. — Room decorated and pan- 
eled in distemper and encaustic by Strieby, 1873. The fruit pieces and repre- 
sentation of moulding are particularly well executed. The door near by leads 
to a vestibule which opens into the House Lobby. The bronze staircase (35) 
is the same as those adjacent so the Senate Lobby. 

69. Reporters of Debates. — This room was originally used as the Mem- 
bers' Reception Room. The walls aie tinted, and the groined arches overhead 
are decorated in arabesque in fresco. 

;o. Lobby of the House of Representatives. — The lobby, which may 
be entered in company with a member during the sessions of the House, has 
an iron-paneled ceiling, highly enriched in oil, the decoration being that in 
vogue during the 15th centurv. On the r. are doors opening into the Hall. 



PRINCIPAL SiollY 



101 



71. Hall of the Representatives.— ("House of Represen- 
tatives") — The dimensions of this superb legislative hall, 
the finest in the world, are : length, 139 ft.; width, 93 ft.; 
height, 36 ft. The floor is 1 15 feet by 67 feet. The galleries 
will seat about 2,500 persons. Beneath these, against the N. f 

Si 




E.,and W. walls, are cloak and retiring rooms, and back of the 
Speaker's chair the lobby. 

Upon the floor are desks for the Representatives and Delegates, arranged in 
concentric semi-circle*. The Speaker's "desk" is raised about 3 ft. from the 
floor. In front are desks for the clerks of the House, and still in front desks for 
the official reporters. The whole is made of white marble, with a base of Ten- 
nessee, and is extremely beautiful. The clock marks the morning hour, and 
limit of debate. East of the Speaker, on a pedestal of Vermont marble, stands 
the mace or insignia of authority, when the House is in session. When not, it 
may be seen in the room of the Sergeant-at-Arms. It consists of a bundle of 
lictor's rods, bound together by silver ligatures, and surmounted by a silver 



102 PRINCIPAL STUtlY. 

terrestial globe, crowned by the American eagle. On the left of the chair is a 
full length portrait of Washington, by Vanderlyn, 1834, and on the right one of 
the Marquis de Lafayette, by Ary Scheffer, 1822, the celebrated French artist ; 
was presented to Congress by Lafayette upon his last visit. In the W. panel of 
the S. wall is a fresco by Brumidi, representing Washington at Yorktown re- 
ceiving the officers sent by Cornwallis to ask two days' cessation of hostilities, 
and in place of which two hours were granted. Over the N. door is a clocks 
surmounted by an eagle, and supported on either side by figures of an Indian 
and hunter. In the panels east and west of the S. doors are two paintings by 
A. Bierstadt, $10,000 each, respectively representing the Settlement of Cali- 
fornia about 1769, in the name of Spain, purchased 1878, and the Discovery 
of the Hudson River by Henry Hudson, 1609, purchased 1875, representing the 
great navigator landing, and groups of Indians and birch canoes 

The ceiling of the Hall is ofcast iron, paneled, painted and gilded, and highly 
enriched with gilt moldings, and supported on a decorated cornice. 'I he.pan.els 
Atr; filled with glass with stained centre pieces, representing the arms of the 
States. There are two outer rows of panels, that nearest the wall of open work, 
with massive pendants in the centre. Above the ceiling is the illuminating 
loft, with 1,500 gas gets lighted by electricity during night sessions. Heie also 
is the truss work of the ceiling and roof. For heating and ventilating , page 114 
During a recess or adjournment of the House visitors can enter upon the floor 
The doors in the lobby are generally open. When the House, which meets at 
T2 noon, is in session, the rules designate who are allowed the privileges of t lit 
72. Hall Library, for the use of members in debate. 
73 and 74. Cloak Rooms. 
75. Key and Store-Room. 

76 to 78. Representatives' Retiring Room. — The pilasters, cornice, and 
celling are of iron, enriched with gilt. In the centre panel, overhead, is a 
massive representation of a cluster of acorns. On the walls hangs a gallery 
of crayon portraits of the Speakers of the House of Representatives since the 
first organization of the body, by Louis Wieser, Washington, D. C. $50 each. 
Each State is invited to contribute oil paintings of the Speakers eit-cted from 
their Representatives Connecticut has already furnished Jonathan Trumbull, 
by H. J. Thompson, 1880. The mirrors, hangings of the curtains, and furni- 
ture, are all in keeping. 

79. Closets. 

80. Room of the Speaker of the House of Representatives. 

81 to 83. Offices of the House of Representatives. — 81. Sergeant-at- 
Arms. 82. Engrossing and Enrolling Clerks. 83. Journal and Printing Clerks. 

84. Western Grand Staircase. — Same in material and 
construction as that on east. See Engraving, p. 87. 

In the niche at the foot is a bust of Bee-she-kee the Buffalo, a warrior of the 
Chippewas of the Upper Mississippi, by F. Vincenti, 1854, bronze by Joseph 
Lasalle, 1858. 

Over the first landing is Westward Ho, a chromo silica 
by Emanuel Leutze, 1862, $20,000. 

This represents an emigrant train crossing the Rocky mountains. Below 
is The Golden Gate, harbor of San Francisco, by A. Bierstadt. In the 
ornamental border north is a medallion of Daniel Boone and south Captain 
William Clarke, both early pioneers. 

85, 86. Committee on Naval Affairs. — The floors of both extensions are 
laid in encaustic tiles of beautiful design, c c c c courts. 

ATTIC STORY. 

1,2. Store Rooms of the Congressional Library. 

CENTRAL BUILDING, NORTH WING. 

3. Steps to the Dome and Electrician's Room. — See No. n principal 
Story to the dome. The steps to the right lead to 

4. Electric Battery Room, containing thebatteries for lighting the capitol. 



ATTIC STOKY. 



103 



5. Electrician's Office. — The officer will explain the working of the appa- 
ratus. The light mg of the capitol by electricity was begun in 1865. The 
gas is from the mams of the city. See No. 9, Principal Story. 




THE RETIRING ROOM OF THE REPRESENTATIVES. (Sec iNo. 70-70, y. Lu^.J 

6, 7, and 8. Library of the Senate (reached from 21 Principal Story, open 
every day). This embraces a collection of official documents printed by order 
of either House of Congress, the journals, debates, and proceedings of each; 
statutes ; U. S. Supreme Court reports ; law books ; special works of reference 
relating to legislation, and files of newspapers. The library occupies the adja- 
cent lofts, and in the aggregate comprises 25,000 vols. It is designed for the ex- 
clusive use of Senators. 

NORTH OR SENATE EXTENSION. 

9, 11, 12, and 13. Senate Document Room, reached from 16. Attic Story, 
contains files and extra copies of all bills, laws, reports, and other official docu- 
ments printed by order of Congress, or either brancn, and for the current sup- 
ply of Senators. . 

[10. Senate Committee on Civil Service.] 

14. Eastern Grand Staircase. — For Description see 28 Prin- 



ATTIC MOKY. 



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ATTIC STORY. 



lu«3 



cipai story. 

Galleries will seat 1,200 persons. — 15. Ladies ; 17. Reserved ; 18. Diplo- 
matic ; 19. Gentlemen ; 20 Press Reporters, with desks and seats for about 
60 representatives of the press ; 21. Ladies. 16. Corridor. 22. Ladies' 
Retiring Room. 

23. Hall, richly stuccoed in emblematical figures. Here are the paintings 
of the Grand Canon 0/ the Yellowstone and Chasm of the Colorado, by 
Thomas Moran, Pa., purchased respectively 187? and 1874, $10,000 each. 

24. Ante Room beautifully enriched in stucco. Exclusively for ladies. 

25. Senate Committees on Private Land Claims; 26. Claims; 27. 
Revolutionary Claims; 28. Eastern Corridor; 29, 30. Com. on Print- 
ing; 31. Western Corridor; 32 "Western Grand Staircase, see 51 Prin- 
cipal Story, page 87. 33, 34. Sen. Com. Public Buildings and Grounds. 




GRAND CORRIDOR AND MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE "HOUSE." (SeeNo.6o,p. 1 

35. To the Illuminating Loft. 

36. Senate Committee on Transportation. — Entered thr >ugh 37. 

37. Senate Committee on Pacific Railroads. — Tinted walls, and with- 
out decoration. 

38. Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections. 

39. Elevator for use of Senators. (See Principal Story, 45.) 

40. Senate Committee on Commerce. — A fine apartment, without deco- 
ration. 

41. Senate Committee on Mines and Mining. — A small room, without 
special attraction. 

42. Ante Room opening into No. 43 and Gentlemen 's Galleries. 

43. Press Reporters' Retiring Room. — A fine apartment, furnished for 
the use of members of the press entitled to the privileges of the gallery. _ There 
is also a branch telegraph office for the convenience of the press during the 
sessions of Congress. 



106 ATTIC STORY. 

MAIN BUILDING- SOUTH WING. 

44. Store Room for House Library. — Entered by the door in the gallery 
over the north door of the Statuary Hall. 

45. Store Room connected with the document room of the House of Rep- 
resentatives. 

46. Store Room of House Library. The room south is used for the same 
purpose. 

SOUTH OR " HOUSE " EXTENSION. 

47. Eastern Grand Staircase.— See 64 Principal Story. The adjacent 
corridor leads to the Northern Corridor , Galleries, and Ladies' Retiring 
Rooms. 

48. Northern Corridor. — The ceiling presents an interesting combination 
of circular flanked by groined arches and lunettes richly embellished with em- 
blematic figures and arabesques in stucco. 

49. Library of the House of Representatives. — This is entered from 
the Northern Corridor. In this room are 15,000 volumes, though the entire 
library comprises 150,000 volumes, which embraces the floor library of the 
House of Representatives {Principal Story , J2) and the libraries of commit- 
tees. Owing to want of suitable accommodation, the galleries outside the 
peristyle of the Hall of Statuary and 44 and 46 Attic Story, are used for the 
storage of books. It is proposed, after the erection of a building for the accom- 
modation of the Library of the United States, to assign the magnificent suit of 
library halls (Principal Story, j"and 6) to the uses of the documentary libraries 
of the two Houses of Congress. 

50. Ladies' Galleries. — See No. 71 Principal Story ; also Diagrams, 

51. Reserved Galleries for families of Members of the House of Repre- 
sentatives. See No 7 1 Principal Story ; also Diagrams. 

52. Reserved Gallery for members of the Diplomatic Corps. See No. 7/ 
Principal Story ; alsc Diagrams. 

53. Press Reporters' Gallery, with desks and seats for about one hundred 
representatives of the press. 

54. Reserved Gallery, exclusively for Ladies. 

55. Gentlemen's Gallery. — See No. J 1 Principal Story ; also Diagrams. 
The House Galleries will seat about 2,500 persons. 

56. House Committee on Foreign Affairs. — No special attractions. 

57. House Committee on the Judiciary. — The room is tinted and en- 
riched with stucco. 

58. House Committee on Commerce — Walls simply tinted. 

59. House Committee on Public Lands — No special attractions. 

60 and 61. Ladies' Retiring Rooms. — Neatly and comfortably furnished 
and possessing every convenience. A matron is in constant attendance. 
These rooms are entered from the eastern corridor and gallery. 

62. Press Reporters' Retiring Room, (entered through 64 and 63 from 
the western corridor,) and for the use of those entitled to the privileges of the 
gallery. There are conveniences for writing dispatches. Adjoining is a small 
cloak-room. 

63. Press Telegraph Office (open during the sessions of Congress). 
Twenty-four wires leave the building by means of three ten-wire cables, and 
beyond the Capitol Grounds, S., connect with the lines for all parts of the 
United States. There are also ten wires leading under the building to the 
Senate Office, and six wires to the connecting corridor, (59 Principal Story.) 
A switch enables the operators to form a connection with the lines to any part 
of the United States. 

64. Ante-Room leading from the western corridor to the Press Telegraph 
Office and Reporters' 1 Retiring Room. 

65. House Committee on Pacific Railroads and Revolutionary 
Claims. 

66. House Committee on Elections. — No attractions of special interest- 
67. — House Committee on Railways and Canals. — No special decora 

tion. 
68.— House Committee on the District of Columbia. 



BASEMENT STORY. 107 

69 and 70. House Committees on the Militia and Mileage. 

71. Western Grand Staircase. — See 84, Principal Story. The adjacent 
corridor leads to the Northern Corridor , the Galleries , Committee Rooms, 
Press Telegraph Office, and Reporters' Retiring Room. 

c. c. c. c. — Courts. 

The floors of the attic story of the N. and S. extensions are laid with encaus- 
tic tiles of elegant design. 

BASEMENT STORY— SENATE EXTENSION. 

1. Western Stairway and Corridor. — The former as- 
cends to the principal story. The corridors of the Senate 
basement present an interesting exhibition of the decorative 
art. The vaulted ceilings throughout are in distemper, and 
all below the spring of the arches in oil. The walls and 
pilasters are in the style of the 15th century, as employed in 
the loggia of Raphael in the Vatican at Rome, with centre 
medallions of illustrious Americans, and introductions from 
the natural history of America. The ceilings are in the 
same style, with introductions of modern inventions and 
American landscape. The birds, animals, and reptiles are 
studies from the collection in the museum in the Smithson- 
ian Institution, drawn by Brumidi, and painted by Leslie. 
The decoration of the basement commenced in 1855. The 
medallions and finer parts are by Brumidi, while the de- 
tails are by others. 

The profiles in medallions of the panels represent prominent personages 
in the struggle for independence. At the N. end are the 12 signs of the 
Zodiac ; also landscapes of Day and Night. Over the door of the room 
of the Com. on Mil. Affairs is a spirited fresco representing America ac- 
coutred for war, and surrounded by the implements of martial strife; opposite 
the foot of the grand staircase, Las Casas, the early friend of the red man; 
over the door of the room of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Columbus land- 
ing and beholding the beauty of an Indian maiden, typical of the lands he had 
discovered, and opposite is America seated with drawn sword, reading from 
the Constitution and the laws on the one hand, with Justice standing on the 
other, all by Brumidi. 

2. Senate Committee on Revision of the Laws. — Tinted. 

3. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. — This room was originally in- 
tended for the use of the Committee on Agriculture. In the pilasters and bands 
are fruit pieces. Under the arches are typical groups of agricultural products 
and implements. In the groined ceiling is a centre-piece of grapes and leaves 
well executed. The general decoration consists of arabesques and gilt. The 
4 border pieces represent seasons and showers, flowers, grains, and fruits. The 
foliage is specially well executed. The ceiling is distemper and the walls oil ; 
executed by Castens, a German. 

4. Senate Heating and Ventilating Apparatus. — See Sub-basement 
Story. 

5. Senate Committee on the District of Columbia. — Tinted. 

6. Senate Committee on Library. — The vaulted ceiling is adorned with 
fresco and gilt, and medallion pieces representing Sculpture, Astronomy, Ar- 
chitecture and Painting. The walls are laid out in a broad panel or border. 

7. Senate Committee on Military Affairs. — The ceilings are frescoed 
with victors' wreaths, shields, and other emblems of war. On the walls and 
pilasters are representations of arms and armor of different periods, nations, 
and races, ancient and modern. The pilasters were painted by Leslie. The 
sword across the shield in the centre pilaster is a copy of the sword of Wash- 
ington. On the W. wall is a medallion head of Liberty, surrounded by flags 
and weapons of war. Under the arches are 5 historic subjects, in fresco, by 



108 



BASEMENT i-TORY. 
P-- ■ -- 




s t 



BASEMENT STORY. 109 

Brumidi; N., Boston Massacre, 1770. S., Battle of Lexington, 1775. N., 
Death of Wooster, during the British invasion of Connecticut, 1777. S., 
Washington at Valley Forge, 1778. The three prominent figures in the fore- 
ground are Washington, with Lafayette on his I. and Gen. Green on r. E., 
Storming of Stony Point by Anthony Wayne, 1779. Wayne, wounded, is be- 
ing carried into the fort. 

8. Senate Committee on Naval Affairs. — The general design of decora- 
tion is Pompeian, by Brumidi. The principal features of the ceilings are fresco 
representations of marine gods and goddesses and an Indian female. Under 
the arches are representations of ancient porticoes with antique vessels. The 
walls, painted in oil, are divided into nine panels, with blue background and 
figures representing attributes of the navy as centre-pieces. The pilasters are 
scagliola, by French artists. 

9. Elevator. — (See Principal Story, No. 45. ) 

10. The Senate Committee on the Judiciary. — The wall decoration con- 
sists of figured panels and the vaulted ceiling, elaborate arabesques, varied by 
flower pieces and 4 medallions, each containing cherubs respectively bearing 
olive branches, fasces, quiver, and band with motto, £ pluribus unum. 

11. Closets. 

12. Northern Corridor. — In the arch over the E. end are introductions of 
improved agricultural implements. In the demi-lunette over the door to the 
room of the Committee on Foreign Relations (No. 20) is a fresco representation 
of the signing of the provisional articles for treaty of peace between the United 
Slates and his Britannic Majesty, Nov. 30, 1782, from an unfinished picture by 
Benjamin West, a copy of which was left by Senator Sumner, of Massachusetts. 
The fresco over the door of the room of the Committee on Territories (No. 13) 
represents the negotiation of the cession of Louisiana to the United States by 
France. In the pilasters are subjects from the natural history of America, and 
the medallion centres of ihe paneling of the walls contain profiles of Revolu- 
tionary heroes. At the W. end are some fine specimens of bird painting. 

13. Senate Committee on Territories. — Ceiling frescoed in arabesques, 
walls richly paneled. 

14. Bronze Staircase. — (See No. 33 Principal Story.) 

15. Senate Stationery Room. — No decoration. 

16. Senate Committee on Agriculture. — No decoration. 

17. Main Corridor. — Near the N. door is richly frescoed overhead, but is 
unfinished. At the base of the spans are landscapes. In the medallions are 
profiles. The decoration of the ceilings of the broad corridor beyond is unfin- 
ished. In the pilasters are sketches of American landscape. The smaller 
halls beyond are enriched overhead with foliage, vines, and four American 
eagles, and representations of banners and implements of war. 

18. Senate Committee on Contingent Expenses. 

19. Superintendent Senate Folding Room. 

20. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. — On the ceiling, in dis- 
temper, are four well-executed eagles, and under the arches, in oil, four medal- 
lions, containing profiles of chairmen of the committee : Clay N., Allen S., 
Cameron E., Sumner W. The walls are artistically paneled. The medallions 
are by Brumidi, and the rest of the room by Castens. 

21. Hall. — The decoration is varied with emblematic figures. The femaie 
figures denote peace and plenty. In the S. arch, overhead, are four pieces, re- 
presenting navigation, geography, the industrial arts, and science. In the N. 
band are mechanics and the agricultural products of the northern States, and 
S. band commerce and the products of the southern States. Over the door of 
the room of the Committee on Patents is a fine fresco of Robert Fulton of 
Pennsylvania, one of the first (1807) to apply steam to the purposes of naviga- 
tion. The likeness is from a portrait painted by Fulton himself, and now in 
the office of the Commissioner of Patents. Over the door of the room of the 
Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads is a fresco of Benjamin Franklin, 
the first Post Master General during the revolutionary days, and opposite is 
John Fitch, one of the earliest inventors of (3798) steam as applied to naviga- 
tion. 

22. Senate Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads. — Ceilings 
frescoed in arabesque — walls tinted. 



110 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

23. Senate Committee on Patents. — Simply tinted. 

24. Eastern Entrance and Vestibule. — The doors open from an arcaded 
walk and vaulted carriageway beneath the Senate portico into a vestibule, in 
which are eight marble piers, four on each side, with sixteen corresponding 
marble pilasters. These piers and pilasters support the colonnade of the main 
vestibule above, and afford, perhaps, the most striking example of the durabil- 
ity and strength of the edifice. The arches are tinted and enriched with 
stucco. The walls are scagliola. 

25. Senate Committee on Pensions. — The ceiling is decorated in ara- 
besques in fresco, with four border medallions of flowers and fruits. Under the 
£. and W. arches are symbolic representations of the Constitution and Liberty, 
and N. and S. fruit pieces. 

26. Eastern Stairway and Corridor. 

27. Passage and Steps to Senate Folding Room.— (See No. 6.) 

28. Senate Committee on Public Lands. — Frescoed overhead with 
border and American shields and arabesques. The walls are paneled, with 
bases in scagliola. 

29. Senate Committee on Education and Labor, reached through No. 
28, is a small but chastely-decorated apartment. 

30. 31. Senate Refectory. — Open to the public. 

32. Inner Corridor. — In the bands of the arches are eagles clutching fasces 
and olive branches. The walls are paneled. In the pilasters are American 
shields and sketches from American natural history. The rooms on either side, 
except the Refectory, are used for storage. 

33. Senate Committee on Manufactures. 

34. Senate Committee on Rules. — No decoration. 

35. Connecting Corridor. — Ceiling distempered and gilt. 

MAIN BUILDING— NORTH WING. 

36. Corridor, from the Senate Extension to the Crypt. 

37> 38, 39. Conference Room of the Supreme Court of the United 
States. — 37, Ante-Room ; 38, Conference Room; 39, Conference Room Li- 
brary. 

40. Senate Baths, for the use of Senators. — Fitted up with marble baths 
and every convenience. There is also a water-cure apparatus and barber shop. 
41. Vestibule. — The arched substruction supports the Greek vestibule 
above. The door E. opens at foot of — 

42. Supreme Court Store Room and Files. 

43. Staircases to Principal Story. — There are two of these, one in each 
wing of the main building. The general architectural design of that on the S. is 
peculiarly attractive. The vestibule E. is ornamented with columns in imita- 
tion of cornstalks, suggested by Jefferson. 

44. Law Library, ( open every day, except Sunday, same as 
Library of the United States, entered from No. 43.) — This apart- 
ment is semi-circular, with an arched recess towards the 
W., and a colonnade recess on the E., back of which are the 
only windows. An arcade passage runs around the sweep 
of the circle, supporting a domical ceiling of masonry, rest- 
ing on heavy Doric columns, covering the entire room. The 
ceiling is groined upon the surrounding arches. In the tym- 
panum of the W. arch, in the recess, is a plaster relief, by 
Franzoni, representing a figure of Justice, and by her side 
Fam.e, crowned with a rising sun and pointing to the Consti- 
tution of the United States. The columns and piers of the 
arches of this room are heavy Doric. Some alterations were 

made in the original design of this room, owing to the fall of the vaulted ceiling, 
the result of defective construction. This led to the introduction of the columns. 



BASEMENT STORY. 



HI 



which have added greatly to the appearance of solidity, and have materially 
strengthened that part of the building. The alcoves for the books are arranged 
on the W. The room in the NE of the main hall is devoted to works on For- 
eign Law, Legislation. The inner roo7n to Trials. The small room on the 
NW. is set apart for Foreign Law Commentaries. The room by the entrance 
door is used for storage. The Library is a branch of the Library of the United 
States and for the special use of the Supreme Court of the United States. 
See page 82 for Description and History of Library. 




THE ROOM OF THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AFFAIRS. (See p. IO7.) 

CENTRAL BUILDING. 

45. Crypt. — A circular space, consisting of a treble colon- 
nade, containing 40 Doric columns of the proportions of 
•those of the Temple of Psestum, surmounted by groined 
arches running in radii direction, and supporting the floor 
of the Rotunda. The star in the pavement under the cen- 
tral arch denotes the exact centre of the Capitol. The 
grating in the pavement of the Crypt on the E. side leads 
to the vaulted passages below. The weight of the iron 
alone in the Dome is 8,009,200 lbs. 

46. Headquarters Capitol Police. 

47. Guard-Room, or Prison, for the temporary imprisonment of persons 

48. Steps to the Sub-bisemenc and Undercroft. 

49. Western Staircase, leading to the Rotunda. 

50. Western Main Entrance of the Capitol. — (See No. 49.) 



112 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

51. Senate Committee on Rules. 
Senate Committee on Manufactures. 

52. Senate Committee on the Census. 

53. Senate Committee on Education. 
54 and 55. Store Rooms. 

56. Room of the Territorial Delegates. 

57. House Committee on Expenses in the Navy Department. 

58. House Committee On Education and Labor. Here contumacious 
witnesses have been confined. 

59. Coinage, Weights and Measures. 

00. House Committee on the Revision of the Laws. 
61. House Committee on Mines and Mining. 

CENTRAL BUILDING-SOUTH WING. 

6:. Vestibule. 

fi-x. Corridor. — A. continuation of the main corridor. 

65. Offices Superintendent of the House Document Room. The ad- 
jacent rooms are use^l for folding and storing public documents. 

64, 66, and 67. Offices of the Clerk of the House of Representatives. 

68. Washington Branch Post Office, (entrance outside.) — Congressional 
matter is here received and mailed to destination. 

69. Connecting Corridor. 

SOUTH OR HOUSE EXTENSION. 

70. Main Corridor to the S. Entrance. — It is 143 ft. long and 25 tt. wide, 
and consists of a fine colonnade of fluted marble columns on each side, with cap- 
ita Is formed of acanthus, tobacco, and corn leaves. The walls are scagliola, 
instating Sienna marble, the ceiling iron, and the floor encaustic tiles. 

71. Refectory. — Open to the public. 

72. House Committee on Indian Affairs.- Here is a collection of oil 
pa intings, illustrating life among the Sioux Indians of Minnesota, painted 
in 1867-69 by Lieut. Col. Seth Eastman, a retired officer of the U. S.A. 

73. Corridor. 

74. House Baths, for the use of members of the House. There are 8 baths, 
4 of which are marble, and fitted up with all the elegance and appliances of 
the modern bath. 

75. Eastern Stairway and Corridor. — No special decoration. 

76. House Committee on Printing. — Walls simply tinted. 

77. House Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads. 

78. Passage to steps to Sub-basement. (See No. 93.) On the same are tne 
locksmith's shop and ice and store rooms. 

79. Eastern Entrance and Vestibule. — The entrance opens from the ar- 
caded walk and vaulted carriage way beneath the eastern portico of the House 
Extension. The groined arches of the vestibule rest on 4 marble piers and cor- 
responding pilasters. The arches are decorated with stucco, and the walls are 
finished in scasrliola. 

80. House Post office, fitted up with bird's-eye maple cases, with boxes for 
each member and the officers of the House of Representatives. The room is 
without decoration. 

81. House Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. — The deco- 
ration consists of paneled walls, with a balustrade above the moulding. The 
ceiling is embellished with arabesques, two American eagles and shields, and 
has an elliptical centre-piece formed of balusters, in fresco, 

82. Room of the Official Reporters of Committees. 

83. House Committees on Coinage. Weights and Measures, and the 
Library. 

84. House Committee on Territories. — Richly and appropriately deco- 
rated with Indians' weapons of war and the chase and implements of peace. 
In the spans of the arches is a running border, with introductions of fox and 
deer heads, and the smaller animal life peculiar to the plains. Under the im- 
post molding is a border of fruits and grains, with escutcheons bearing the 



BASEMENT STORY. 113 

85. House Committee on Private Land Claims and Public Expen- 
ditures. — This Mum is without decoration. 

86. Doorkeepers' Room. — Plain walls. 

87. Newspaper and Index Room. — Here the newspaper subsciption- 
books for members are kept, each member being allowed #125 annually for 
newspapers and stationery. The index, for journals and all public documents 
are also made here in pursuance of an order of Congress. 

88. House Committee on Invalid Pensions. 

89. House Committee on Claims. — Walls tinted. 

90. House Committees on Agriculture and Manufac- 
tures. —Decorated by Brumidi in 18 r >5, the first work of 
the kind done on the Capitol, and, with the exception of 
the panels, is frescoed throughout. On the ceilings are 
representations of the four seasons, symbolized in Flora, 
Ceres, Bacchus, and Boreas. On the E. wall is a fresco 
representating Cincinnatus called from the plow to be Dic- 
tator of Eome. On the opposite wall is a corresponding 
scene, representing Putnam called from the plow to join in 
the battles of the Revolution. 

91. Clerks' Document Room. — Through this office the various executive 
departments and foreign legations in the United States are supplied with copies 
of documents printed by the two Houses of Congress. 

92. "Western Stairway and Corridor. — No decoration. 

93. Steps to the Heating and Ventilating Apparatus, South Exten- 
sion. — v For description, see Sub-baseinent.) The iron grating at the end 
of the passage was originally designed, for the ice used in the ventilation of the 
Hall of the Representatives during the summer months. Improved means have 
obviated the use of ice. Over this grating are the coils of steam pipes, measur- 
ing 11 miles, and used for heating the Hall of Representatives in winter. 

94. House Committee on War Claims. — No decoration. 

95. House Committee on Accounts. — Walls simply tinted. 

96. Closets. 

o. — All rooms marked o indicate used for storage. 
c c c c Courts 

SUB-BASEMENT STORY. 

Under the entire building is a massive substruction or seat of masonry, con- 
sisting of piers and arches, upon which rears the mighty superstructure of the 
Capitol. 

NORTH OR SENATE EXTENSION. 

The sub-basement of the North or Senate Extension may be reached from 
Nos. 4 and 2j, Plan of Basement Story. The former is the proper way for 
visitors. This will lead to the — 

Senate Heating and Ventilating Apparatus. — Open to visitors. The 
machinery employed consists of 4 fans, 2 for air and 2 exhaust ; 4 boilers, 3 
engines, 2 steam-pumps, 1 for the 2 tanks in the loft over the Senate Chamber, 
and 1 for boilers ; 18 miles of steam-pipes in the entire Extension ; 1 vaporizer, 
2 descending shafts from the loft of the Senate Chamber, and 1 ascending shaft 
into the open air, the outlet at the base of the Dome. The principal air-ihaft 
enters from the glacis of the first terrace in the W. Park, 220 ft. from the 
building, the air being drawn in by a fan, and forced through a main air-duct 
into the air-space under the floor of the Senate, and thence into the Chamber by 
means of registers. The air supplied in winter is raised to a temperature of 
68° to 70 , and in summer from 8° to io° below the outer atmosphere. The 
temperature supplied to the galleries is some degrees lower, in order to coun- 
teract the animal heat which ascends to that portion of the Hall. A branch 
air-duct communicates with the galleries. The supply of fresh air is 30,000, 
and exhaust 40,000 cubic ft. a minute. The original apparatus was designed 
by Capt. M. C. Meigs, and the exhaust and other improvements by H. F. 
Hayden, Chief Engineer U. S. Senate. The engineer in charge will explain 



114 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

CENTRAL BUILDING. 

The sub-basement of the Central Building may be reached by the steps No. 
48, Plan 0/ Basement Story. There is also an entrance from the first terrace on 
the western front of the building, immediately below the main western entrance. 
The rooms on these Corridors are used for divers purposes, but of no special 
importance ; the rooms on the Southern Corridor, W. side, by the Engineer 
in Charge of the Public Buildings and Grounds. Here may be seen the 
original manuscript journals, letters, and other books and records of the com- 
missioners superintending the building of the city, 1 791-1800, and the records 
of a later period, and valuable early maps of the city. An attache will be 
found in the office every day except Sundays and holidays. The key to the 
undercroft is kept here. Visitors desiring to see this portion of the building 
will be kindly shown there by the person mentioned. 

The door at the end of the passage leading east from this corridor opens into 
a court across which is the — 

Model Room. — This consists of a subterranean gallery, built of brick and 
heavily arched. It forms a complete circle, and constitutes a portion of the 
foundation of the Dome. Within this is a smaller gallery, and in the exact 
centre the Undercroft, which see. In these galleries are plaster models of cap- 
itals of columns, cornices, mouldings, tiles, and statuary employed in the embel- 
lishment of the exterior and interior of the Capitol. 

The Undercroft or Vault beneath the Crypt, originally designed for the 
sarcophagus containing the remains of Washington. The Undercroft, the nave 
and transept, measuring each 10 feet in length, and about 6 in width, is cruci- 
form. 

Upon learning of the death of Washington, Congress, Dec. 24, 1799, passed 
resolutions appropriate to the sad event, and provided that a marble monument 
should be erected by the United States in the Capitol at Washington. The 
President was authorized to request the wife of the departed patriot to permit 
his body to be deposited under it. In response to the letter of the President, 
Mrs. Washington thus transmitted her assent : 

" Taught by the great example 1 have so long had before me, never to oppose 
my private wishes to the public will, I must consent to the request of Congress, 
which you had the goodness to transmit to me ; and in doing this I need not — 

1 cannot — say what a sacrifice of individual feeling I make to a sense of public 
duty." 

The wish of Congress was not carried out, and a subsequent request of the 
same character, in connection with the National Monument, was declined. 

SOUTH OR HOUSE EXTENSION. 

The sub-basement of the South or House Extension may be reached from 
Nos. 7<S and gj. Plan oj Basement Story. The latter is the proper way for 
visitors. The steps from No. 93 lead direcily to the — 

House Heating and Ventilating Apparatus. — The theory of ventilation 
of the South Extension is the same as lor the North, though not so elaborately 
carried out. One of the engineers will give any desired information. The 
machinery consists of 3 engines : No. 1 for the supply fan of the Hall of the 
Representatives ; No. 2 for the supply fan of the committee rooms and pas- 
sages ; and No. 3 for the exhaust fans ; 2 supply fans 18 and 14 ft. in diameter; 

2 exhaust fans, 10 ft. in diameter ; 5 boilers ; 3 water tanks in the loft above the 
Hall of Representatives ; 2 steam-pumps, 1 for the supply of the boiler, and 1 
for the supply of the tanks ; and 30 miles of steam heating pipes. The air sup- 
plied in winter is raised to the same temperature applied to the heating and 
ventilation of the Senate. The supply of fresh air is about 40,000, and exhaust 
50,000 cubic feet a minute. 

While here the visitor can have an opportunity of examining the foundations 
of this part of the Capitol. The kitchens of the House Refectory are also here. 
The vaulted rooms are used for storage and fuel. 



HISTORY. 



115 



Architects of the Capitol. — 1793, Dr. William Thornton, of Penn., an 
amateur, designer of the Capitol ; 1793, Stephen Hallet, France; 1794, James 
Hoban, S. C; 1795, George Hadfield, England ; 1796, James Hoban, S. C; 
1797, George Hadfield, England ; 1803, R. H. Latrobe. Md.; 1817, Charles 
Bulfinch, Mass.; 1851, Thomas U. Walter, Penn.; 1865, Edward Clark, Penn. 

History. — The site of the. Capitol was chosen and approved by Washing- 
ton, in the original plans of the city, submitted to him by L'Enfant, and in the 
summer of 1791 was located. On this occasion Mr. Ellicott drew the meridian 
and the E. and W. lines, at the intersection of which the Capitol was to stand. 
This having been accomplished, in March, 1792, the commissioners advertised 
in the newspapers in the principal towns and cities of the United States, offer- 
ing a premium of $500. or a medal, for a plan of a President's House and 
Capitol. In this matter Jefferson took an active interest. During his residence 
in Europe he had collected drawings of the fronts of celebrated public build- 
ings. These were now produced for examination. He suggested, in the present 
instance, that the style of architecture of the Capitol should be taken from 
some model of antiquity, and that the President's House should be modern. 




THE CAPITOL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IN 184O. (Eastern Facade.) 

In response to the advertisements a number of plans were submitted, but in the 
selection of one for the Capitol there was a variety of opinions. 

Apian by Dr. Wm. Thornton, of Penn, but materially altered and im- 
proved by others, was approved by Washington and submitted to Stephen 
Hallet, a French architect, who was intrusted with its execution. On Sept. 
18, 1793, the corner-stone of the edifice, SE. corner, was laid by Brothei 
George Washington, assisted by the Worshipful Masters and Free Masons 
of the surrounding cities, the military, and a large number of people. The 
silver plate deposited in the cavity of the stone boi:e the following inscription : 

"This south-east corner-stone of the Capitol of the United - States of America, 
in the City of Washington, was laid on the 18th day of September, 1793, in the 
thirteenth year of American Independence, in the first year of the sec- 
ond term of the Presidency of George Washington, whose virtues in the civil 
administration of his country have been as conspicouous and beneficial, as his 
military valor and prudence have been useful in establishing her liberties, and 
in the year of Masonry 5793, by the President of the United States, in concert 
with the Grand Lodge of Maryland, several Lodges under its jurisdiction, and 
Lodge No. 22 from Alexandria, Virginia. 

"Thomas Johnson, David Stewart, and Daniel Carroll, Commissioners ; 
Joseph Clarke, R. W. G. M. P. T.; James Hoban and Stephen Halbte, Ar- 
chitects ; ColHn Williamson, M. Mason." 



ilH 



HISTORY. 



After ascending from the cavazion, the Grand Master, P. T., Joseph Clarke, 
delivered an oration during which, at intervals, volleys were fired by the 
artillery. The ceremony closed in prayer, Masonic chanting honors, and a 
national salute of 15 guns. 

The President wore the apron and full regalia of a Mason. The gavel used 
was of ivory, and is still preserved as a treasured relic by Lodge No. 90! 
Georgetown. 

After the dedicatory services the entire assemblage took part in a barbecue 
arranged for the occasion in the E. Park 

The N. Wing was ready for 
occupation in 1800. In the com- 
pleted wing the Senate on tht 
W. side, the House of Repre- 
sentatives on E., and the Su- 
preme Court in the basement, 
first held their sessions. In 
1801 the House occupied a tem- 
porary structure called the 
"Oven," from its shape, erected 
on the site of the present S. Ex- 
tension. In 1805 it returned to 
its first apartment in the N. 
Wing. In 1803 R. H. Latrobe 
was appointed Architect of the 
Capitol. This gentleman made 
radical changes in the elevation 
and ground-plan of the build- 
ing, raising the floor from the 
ground story to the principal 
order over the casement. The 
S. Wing was in readiness for the 
occupation of Congress in 181 1. 
The central portions were still 
unfinished. An unsightly wood- 
en passage connected the two 
wings. During thewarofi8i2 
work on the building was sus- 
pended. In 1814 the interior of 
both wings was destroyed by 
the British, after which Con- 
gress, on Sept. 19, 1814, met 
temporarily in the structure 
known as Blodgett's Hotel, sit- 
uated on the E-st. front of the 
square now occupied by the 
General Post Office . The ses- 
sion of Congress commencing 
Dec. 18, 1815, assembled in a 
building on the SE. corner of A 
and 1st sts. NE. erected by the 
citizens of Washington for the 
purpose, and was occupied till 
the restoration of the S. Wing 
of the original Capitol in 1827. 

;o the "Old Capitol," and was usee 
asa political prison during the Rebellion, 1861-65. 
In 1815, after an obstinate discussion, for a tin 




This structure was afterwards known as 



consequences to the harmony of the Union, Congress determined to restore the 
p a PJ t0 V ..J work of restoration was commenced by Mr. Latrobe. Charlei 
tfulnnch of Boston, his successor, commenced the central portions of ihe build 
ing, including the Rotunda and Library, in 1818, which were completed in 1827 



me threatening the most serious 
tore the 
Charles 



HISTORY. 



Ill 



In 1818 a temporary building was erected near the Capitol for the use of com- 
mittees of Congress. The plans of Latrobe, with a few slight modifications, 
were carried out, and the entire structure, with terraces and grounds, was com- 
pleted in 13 years, at a cost, including alterations, repairs, &c, and improve- 
ment of grounds, to 1851, when the Extensions were added, $2,690,459.21. In 
Sept., 1850, Congress passed an act authorizing the extension of the Capitol. 
Thomas U. Walter, the architect of Girard College, at Philadelphia, in June, 
1851, submitted apian of extension to President Fillmore. This was accepted, 
and Mr. Walter was designated 
to carry it into execution. The 
corner-stone of the S. extension 
was laid on July 4, 1851. The 
following is a copy of the record 
deposited beneath the corner- 
stone : 

" On the morning of the first 
day of the seventy -sixth year of 
the Independence of the United 
States of America, in the City 
of Washington, being the 4th 
day of July, 1851, this stone, 
designated as the corner-stone 
of the Extension of the Capitol, 
according to a plan approved 
by the President, in pursuance 
by of an act of Congress, was laid 
Millard Fillmore, President 
nf the United States, assisted 
by the Grand Master of the 
Masonic Lodges, in the presence 
of many members of Congress; 
of officers of the Executive and 
Judiciary departments, Nation- 
al, State and District ; of officers 
of the Army and Navy ; the 
corporate authorities of this and 
neighboring cities ; many asso- 
ciations, civil and military and 
Masonic; officers of the Smith- 
sonian Institution and National 
Institute ; professors of colleges 
and teacbers uf schools of the 
District of Columbia, with their 
students and pupils ; and a vast 
concourse of people from places 
near and remote, including a 
few surviving gentlemen who 
witnessed the laying of the 
corner-stone of the Capitol by 
President Washington, on the 
eighteenth day of September, 
seventeen hundred and ninety- 
three. 

"If, therefore, it shall be hereafter the will of God that this structure shall. 
fall from its base, that its foundation be upturned, and this deposit brought to 
the eye of men, be it known that, on this day, the Union of the United States 
of America stands firm ; that their Constitution still exists unimpaired, and 
with all its original usefulness and glory, growing every day stronger and 
stronger in the affections of the great body of the American people, and attract- 
ing more and more the admiration of the world. And all here assembled, 
whether belonging to public life or to private life, with hearts devoutly thankful 




118 



HISTORY OF CONGRESS. 



to Almighty God for the preservation of the liberty and happiness of the coun 
try, unite in sincere and fervent prayers that this deposit, and the walls and 
arches, the domes and towers, the columns and entablatures, now to be erected 
over it, may endure forever ! 

" God save the United States of America ! Daniel Webster, 

"Secretary of State of the United States." 
Daniel Webster, the orator of the day, concluded the ceremonies 

In 1855 Congress authorized the removal of the Dome, and the construction 
of a new one of iron, according to the plans of Architect Walter. The first 
Dome was built of wood. In the fire of 1851, which consumed the interior ol 
the Library of Congress, this Dome was in imminent danger. Tnough«it 
escaped destruction, the lesson suggested its removal, which was done in 1856. 
In its place the erection of the present Dome of iron, finished in 1865, was 
undertaken. The inner shell of the first Dome was ornamented with panels oi 
caissons, and modeled after that of the Pantheon of Agrippa at Rome. It was 
smaller in size, the Dome of the Capitol being 96 ft. in height and diameter, 
and 122% ft to the skylight. The Dome cf the Pantheon was 142 ft. in diam- 
eter, which was about the same as the height, one-half being the height of the 
Dome and the circular opening for light 23 ft. in diameter. The outer shell ol 
the Dome of the Capitol was higher in proportion than its original in Rome. 
The circular aperture at the apex was also covered by a cupola, around which 
there was a balustrade, reached by a stairway between the inner and outer 
shells. The access, however, was inconvenient and dangerous. On one occa- 
sion a lady slipped and fell upon the sash, breaking the glass, but was prevented 
from precipitation to the pavement of the Rotunda below by the strength of the 
frame. 

The work on the Capitol was continued through the war of the rebellion, 
i86i-'65. On December 12, 1863, at noon, the statue of Freedom which sur- 
mounts the Dome was placed in position. The flag of the United States was 
unfurled from its crest, and was greeted by the shouts ot thousands of citizens 
and soldiers. A national salute of thirty-five guns was fired by a field battery 
in the E. Park, and was responded to by the great guns of the chain of forts 
constituting the defenses of the threatened capital of the Nation. 

The new Hall of the S. Extension was occupied by the House of Represen- 
tatives December 16, 1857, and that of the N. by the Senate January 4, 1859. 
The Capitol to date cost: Main Building $3,000,000; Dome, $1,000,000; 
Extensions N. and S., #8,000,000 ; miscellaneous, $1,000,000. Total, $13,000,. 
000. {See description of the Capitol for details of its construction, embellish- 
ments, <i nd objects of interest within its mightyivalls.) 




HISTORY 

OF 

CONGRESS. 

The First Continental 
Congress, Peyton Ran- 
dolph, of Va., President, 
met at Philadelphia in 
September, 1774, all the 
colonies except Georgia 
being represented. The 
British king and minis- 
try were highly incensed 
at the^e " persons, styling 
themselves delegates of 
his majesty's colonies 
in America, having 
presumed, without his 
majesty's consent, to as- 
semble together at Phila- 
delphia. The royal disap- 
probation of the proceed- 



HISTORY OF CONGRESS. 119 

in. .iad no effect whatever. This Congress met May 10 1775, at Philadelphia, 
an^ again chose Peyton Randolph, of Va., President; but owing to severe illness 
he esigned, and on May 24, John Hancock was chosen. Since this gathering 
tht American Congress, Continental or General, as it has been variously styled, 
has had an unbroken line of succession. Under the Articles of Confederation, 
executed at Philadelphia July 9, 1778, Congress met annually on the first Mon- 
day in November. 

"1 he first Congress under the- Constitution commenced March 4, 1789, held 
twe sessions in New York City, and subsequently met in Philapelphia, Dec. 
6, i /90. Here it remained until June, 1800, when the executive branch of the 
Go ernmentwas transferred from Philadelphia to the Permanent Seat of G ov- 
ert ,'nent, and future Capitol of the Republic, established by act of 1790, on the 
bar ks of the Potomac. The 6th Congress, 2d Session, the first which met in 
the City of Washington, assembled there on Nov. 17 (third Monday), 1800. 
On Nov. 22, the President of the United States, John Adams, in person, deliv- 
ere 1 an address to the two Houses of Congress assembled in the Senate Cham- 
bei of the Capitol, then in one of the apartments now occupied by the Supreme 
Co-.rt of the United States, and felicitated them upon an occasion so gratify- 
ing . Since that time, with the exception of a brief interruption after the de- 
struction of the interior of the building by the British in 1814, Congress has 
ma ie its home in the Capitol. Congress meets under the Constitution on the 
first Monday in December of each year, unless otherwise provided by law. 

The Senate, composed of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Leg- 
islatures of the same for six years, exercises executive as well as legislative 
functions. The Vice President of the United States is ex officio President of 
the Senate. In event of a vacancy the Senate elects a President /7-<? tempore. 

Presidents of the Senate. — 1789, 1-4 Congress, John Adams, Mass.; 
1797, 5-6, Thomas Jefferson, Va.; 1801, 7-8, Aaron Burr, N. Y.; 1805, 9-12, 
George Clinton, N. Y.; 1813, 13-14, Elbridge Gerry, Mass.; 1817, 15-18, D. D. 
T( mpkins, N. Y.; 1825, 19-22, J. C. Calhoun, S. C.; 1833, 23-24, Martin Van 
Buren, IS . Y. ; 1837,25-26^. M. Johnson, Ky. ; 1841, 27, John Tyler, Va.; 
1843, 2S, vacant ; 1845, 2 9-3°, G. M. Dallas, Penn.; 1849. 31, Millard Fillmore, 
N Y. ; 1851, 32. vacant: 1853. 33-34, W. R. King, 1 mo., Ala.; 1853, 33"34» va- 
cant; 1857, 35-36, John C. Breckinridge, Ky.; :86i , 37-38, Hannibal Hamlin, 
Me.; 1865, 39-40, A. Johnson, Tenn.; 1867, 40, vacant ; 1869, 41-42, Schuyler 
Colfax, Ind.; 1873, 43, Henry Wilson. Mass.; 1875, 44, vacant ; 1877,45-46, 
William A. Wheeler, N. Y. 1881, 47. Chester A Arthur, N. Y. 

The House of Representatives is composed of members chosen every 
second year by the people of the several States, apportioned by act of Congress 
according to population. The ratio of representation, now in vogue, under 
the census of 1870, is 1 to 131,425 souls, or 292 Representatives and 1 Delegate 
without a vote for each Territory. The House elects its own presiding officer. 

Speakers of the House of Representatives. — 1789, 1st Congress, F. A. 
Muhlenberg, Penn,; 1791,2, Jonathan Trumbull, Conn.; 1793, 3, F. A. Muh- 
lenberg, Penn.; 1795, 4-5, Jonathan Dayton, N. J ; 1799, 6, Theodore Sedg- 
wick. Mass. ; 1801, 7-9, Nathaniel Macon, N. C. ; ^807, 10-11, Joseph B. Var- 
num, Mass.; 1811, 12-13, Henry Clay. Ky.; 1814, 13, Langdon Cheves, S. C; 
1815, 14-16, Henry Clay, Ky.; 1820, 16, John W. Taylor, N. Y.; 1821, 17, 
Philip P. Barbour, Va.; 1823, 18, Henry Clay, Ky.; 1825, 19, John W Tay- 
lor, N. Y.; 1827, 20-23, Andrew Stevenson, Va. : 1834, 23, John Bell, Tenn.; 
1835, 24-25, James K. Polk, Tenn.; 1839, 26, R. M. T. Hunter, Va.; 1841, 27, 
John White, Ky.; 1843, z8 > J°hn W. Jones, Va. ; 1845, 29, J. W. Davis, Ind.; 
1847, 30, Robert C. Winthrop, Mass.; 1849, 3 T » Howell Cobb, Ga.; 1851, 32-33, 
Linn Boyd, Ky. ; 1856, 34, N. P. Banks, Mass.; 1857, 35> James L. Orr, S. C.; 
i860, 36, W. Pennington, N.J ; 1861, 37, Galusha A. Grow, Penn.; 1863,38-40, 
Schuyler Colfax, .Ind. ; 1869,41-43, J. G. Blaine, Me.; 1875, 44, Michael C. 
Kerr, Ind.; 1876, 44,-46 Samuel J. Randall, Penn. 



120 



president's house. 
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE. 



The official residence of the President of the United States 
of America stands on the W. plateau of the city, 1£ m. from 
the Capitol. In the early official plans and documents it is 
designated the President's House, but has been since styled 
the Executive Mansion* and popularly the "White House.'''' 
The Petinsylvania-av. street cars pass in front. 

Grounds- — The edihce stands on Reservation No. 1, 
known as the President's grounds, which comprise 80f 
acres. The north, or main entrance to the building is readied 
from Pa. av., by a semi-circular drive entered through two 
massive gateways. The grounds are tastefully laid out with 
walks, trees, shrubbery, and fountains. The grounds on the 
south are private. Here on Saturdays, from 6 to 8 P. M. 
during the summer, the United States Marine Band dis- 
courses excellent music. 

The stately edifice, 450 ft. west, contains the State, War, and Navy De- 
partments, and the proposed executive office in the north pavilion ; that on 
the east contains the Treasury Department. Across Pa. av. north is Lafay- 
ette Square, with its statue of Jackson, while south, across a broad expanse 
of lawn, lake, and winding drive (Executive Avenue) are the Washington 
Monument and the broad Potomac , with the hills of Virginia and the City of 
Alexandria in the distance. The structure nearby to the S. W., is the Presi- 
dent's Stables. 




PLAN OF THE PRINCIPAL STORY, FKKSIDENT'S HOUSE. 

The Building.— The President's House {East Room open 
to visitiors every day, except Sundays, and private parlors by 
special permission, from 10 a. m. to 3 p. m.) built of freestone 
painted white, is i?0 ft. long by 86 ft. wide, two stories 
high, broken by pilasters of the order, and crowned with 
a balustrade. On the N. is a grand portico, of 8 Ionic col- 
umns, with corresponding pilasters in the rear, affording 



122 



pri->] [>kn rs Di.msi 



a shelter for carnages and pedestrians. The S. front is 
adorned with a lofty semi-circular colonnade of 6 Ionic col- 
umns, resting on a rustic basement, and reached by 2 
flights of steps. On the W. are the conservatories. The 
general style isa modification of the residence of the Duke 
of Leinster, Dublin. 




THE EAST ROOM (jARVIS). 

t. Main or North entrance, and- vestibule 40x50 ft., is tastefully frescoed. 
A sash screen dividing the Htter forms a private corridor ( No. 14) within. 

2. Official Stairway, leading to the Cabinet room and Executive offices. 

3. East Room, designed originally as a Banquet Hall, and so used as late 
as 1837, is 80x40 ft., and 22 ft. high. The style of decor.ition is pure Greek, 
executed in 1873, ceiling in oil, walls in embossed paper, the dado, columns, 
girders, cornice, and carved mantels in wood in white and gilt ; mirrors and 
richly upholstered furniture and hangings add to the attractions of the room. 
The full-length portrait of Washington was purchased by a committee ;f Con- 
gress in 1803, for $2,000, for a Gilbert Stuart. Its genuineness, however, on 
apparently competent authority, is disputed. The original was painted for 
Gardner Baker, of New York, 1794-5. It fell into other hands and was offered to 
the Com. Cong, for the President's House. Having purchased it.Winstanley, an 
English artist, was directed to pack and forward it. The charge is that he made 
a copy and sent that to Washington, and took the original to Europe. When 
discovered, there was no redress. The original came into possession of 
Earl Lansdowne, and on his death into the hands of a London merchant, from 
whom it passed into the hands of Delaware Lewis. The claimed original was 
exhibited in the English loan collection at the Centennial Exposition of 1876. 
The portrait, upon the advance of the British in 1814, was saved by Mrs. Mad- 
ison, who had it taken from the frame and carried to a point of safety. The 
Martha Washington, is by E. F. Andrews, of Ohio, 1878, $3,000. The dress 
is an authentic copy of the costume of the time, made in Paris for a lady of 
wealth, to be worn at the Martha Washington Centennial tea-party at Phila- 
delphia, 1876. This room is now part of the suite for receptions. 

4. Green Room, 30x20 ft., so-called from the predominant color in the dec- 
oration. The portraits of Madison and Monroe are by Edgar Parker, of Mass., 
1878, after Gilbert Stuart: trom life, each $150. Harrison, by Andrews, 1S79, 
$150, after J. H. Bea.d. [840: and Taylor, same, after J. Vanderlyn, 1850. 
Originals in the Corcoran Cillery. 



president's house. 




THE BLUE PARLOR (JAR VIS}. 

• 5. The Blue Room, a beautiful apartment, 40x30 ft., oval in form and fin- 
isned in blue and gilt ; furnishings in blue damask. The chandelier is crystal 
and gilt. In this room the President receives on occasions of Public or Pri- 
vate Receptions ; also the President's wile at her Drawing- Rooms. Guests 
enter by the Red and leave by the Green parlors. 




STATE DIN I 



.'I (JAKVIS). 



12± 



PRESIDENT'S HOUSE. 



6. Red Room, or family parlor, 30x20 ft., tastefully furnished and with 
many articles of historic interest. The portrait of John Adams, by Parker, 
18-79, $150, is after Gilbert Stuart, from life, in possession of Charles Francis 
Adams ; of Jefferson is by Gilbert Stuart (original) purchased 1876, $1,000, from 
Mr. Robb, of Ky.. and duly authenticated ; Buchanan, by Andrews, 1880 
#4uo, after portraits in possession of Harriet Lane Johnston. 

7. State Dining Room, 40x30 ft., contains a dining table to seat 36 per- 
sons, and table ornaments of a tasteful character. The china set in use con- 
sists of 500 pieces, manufactured to Mrs. Hayes's order by Haviland & Co. 
Limoges, 1880, representing the Fauna and Flora of America, and at a cost 
of $; 5,000, the government paying $3,000 for its set, with privilege ol 
duplication, reserved by the manufacturer. 

8. Passage and Entr.ince to the conservatories and stairway to kitchens, 
laundry servants' quarters, etc., in the basement. 9. Butler's Pantry. 10. 
Family Dining Room. u. Private Stairway. 12. Small 'Waiting 
Room. 13. Private Stairway to the attic. 

14. Grand Corridor, thrown open during receptions. The portraits of 
Presidents John Quincy Adams, Van Buren, Tyler, Polk, Fillmore and Pierce, 
are by Geo. P. A. Healy, 1857, for busts, $800, and full lengths, $1,000; Jack- 
son, by Andrews, 1880, $t5o, after Alfred Sully, of Pa., 1835 ; Lincoln, by W. 
Coggswell, 1867, $3,000, and .Ocant, by Henry Ulke, 1879, $800 ; Johnson, by 
Andrews. 1880, $200. 




PLAN OF THE SECOND FLOOR, EXECUTIVE MANSION. 

i. Official Stairway. 2. Ante-Room to President's office. 

3. Cabinet Room, or President's office. The President sits at the south 
end of the cabinet table, and the ministers in the following order : The Secre- 
tary of State on his right, the Secretary of the Treasury on his left, and thus 
alternating, Secretary of War and Navy, and Postmaster-General and Attor 
ney-General. The Secretary of the Interior sits at the north end of the table 
The furnishings of the room are rich, but without ostentation. 

4. Private Secretary's Room. Here the Proclamation of Emancipation 
of the negroes was signed. 

5. Executive Clerks and Record Room. 6. Public Corridor. 7. Extra 
Bed Chamber. 8. Ante-Room. 9 and 10. Chambers. 11. Guest Cham 
ber. 12. Bath Room : 5 baths with beautiful fittings. 13. Guest Chamber 
14. Private Chamber. In this room the post-mortem examination of the re 
mains of President Lincoln was held when brought to the Executive Mansion 
and before laid in state in the East Room. 15. Private Corridor. 16 and 17 
The President's suite of sleeping apartments, 16 being a dressing-room. These 
rooms have been used by the Presidents for a lcng line of years. 18. State Bed 
Chamber. (See page 126.) 

19. Library, or Family Sitting Room, containing cases, alcoves, and reces« 
ses for books. This room is tasteful in decoration and furnishing. 



president's house. 




THE STATE BED CHAMBER (jARVISJ. 

History — The President's House, or " Palace," so styled in the earlier doc- 
uments, was the first of the public buildings erected. On March 14, 1792, the Com- 
missioners of the city advertised for plans for a President's House and Capitol. On 
July 16, 1792, these were examined at Georgetown. The first premium of $ 500 was 
awarded to James Hoban, cf Charleston, S. C, for the plan of a President's House. 
On Oct. 13, 1792, the Commissioners, accompanied by the Freemasons, architects, 
and the inhabitants of Washington and Georgetown, marched in procession to the 
site selected for the President's House, and there, with appropriate and solemn 
ceremonies, laid the corner-stone of that structure. 

The work was conducted under the direction of Mr. Hoban, the architect, and 
was prosecuted under the same difficulties which surrounded the Capitol. Mr. 




PRESIDENT'S HOUSE — SOU I'd FRONT. 

The first President to occupy the building was John Adams, who took possession 
in Nov., 1800, after the removal of the public offices to the permanent Seat of Gov- 
ernment. Previous to that time the Executive of the United States was without a 
home owned by the nation. In New York and Philadelphia rented houses were 
occupied. The building up to 1814 had cost $333,207. 

The President's House was destroyed by the British in 1814. After the evacua- 
tion the President occupied a fine residence on the corner of New York av and 18th 



126 



PRESIDENT B 110U>E. 



st NW., known as the " Octagon, "recently used by the hydrographic office of" the 
Navy Department. In 1815 Congress authorized the restoration of the Prcstdent's 
House, which was done by Hoban, the original architect. It was not again ready, 
however, till after 1818 In 1823 the S. portico, in i8z6 the East Room, and in 
i8zg the N. portico were finished. Since that time the interior of the structure has 
been subject to frequent renovations and repairs. It is entirely unsuitable, how- 
ever, for the purposes to which it is now applied : executive offices and private res- 
idence. Congress has now under consideration a proposition to erect a suitable and 
exclusively private mansion in the suburbs of the capital for the residence of the 
President's household, and the conversion of the present building into execu- 
tive offices. The total appropriations for the erection and maintenance of the Pres- 
ident's House from i8co to date amounts to $1,700,000. 

For formalities and receptions, see General Information— 




• THB CABINET ROOM (jARVIS 

Presidents of the United States of America. — 1. George Washington, Va., 
1789-1797, Federalist; 2. John Adams, Mass., 1797-1801, Fed.; 3. Thomas Jef- 
ferson, Va., 1801-1809, Republican; 4. James Madison, Va., 1809-1817, Rep.; 
;; James Monroe, Va , 1817-1825, Rep.; 6. John Quincy Adams, Mass , 1825- 
1829, Rep.; 7. Andrew Jackson, Tenn., 1829-1837, Democrat; 8. Martin Van 
Buren, N. Y.. 1837-1841 Dem.; 9 William Henry Harrison, Ohio, 1841, 
1 in.., Whig; 10. John Tyler, Va., 1841-1845, elected a vVhig; 11. James K. 
Polk., Tumi., 184^-1^49, Dem.; 12. Zackary Taylor, La., 1849-1850, Whig; 
13. Millard Fillmore N. Y., 1850-1853, Whig; 14. Franklin Pierce, N. H.. 
1853-1857, Dem.; 15. James Buchanan, Penn., 1857-1861, Dem.; 16. Abraham 
Lincoln, 111., 1861-1865, Rep.; 17. Andrew Johnson, Tenn., 1865-1:869, elected 
a Republican; 18. Ulysses S. Grant. HI., 1869-1877, Rep.; 19. R. B. Hayes, 
Ohio, 1877-81, Rep.; 20, 1881, James A. Garfield, Ohio, Rep. 

ihe Executive. — I'lie Executive fmsver >\ the United Spates (C mat., 
1787, Ait. II., Sec. 1) i-> ve^teJ in a President, who lulds office for roar years, 
ind a Vice-President, chjseu for the same term. No person except a natural 



DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 127 

born citizen of the United States, having attained to the age of 35 years, is elig- 
ible to the office. The President and Vice-President are elected by electors in 
each State, as prescribed by Article XII., Amendments to the Constitution of 
the United States (1804), the Acts of Congress of March 1, 1792, and January 
23, 1845, and State law enacted in compliance therewith. After the Vice-Presi- 
dent the President of the Senate pro tempore, or, if none, the Speaker of the 
House of Representatives, for the time being, is authorized to act as President until 
the disability be removed or a President elected. The declination or resigna- 
tion of the President or Vice-President must be in writing, and delivered into 
the office of the Secretary of State. 

The term of office commences March 4th, after the election, if Sunday, on the 
day following ; no inaugural ceremony is required, except that the oath per- 
scribed by the Constitution be taken. This solemn duty is performed by the 
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. 

The President's salary is $50, doo per annum, and the use of the furniture 
and effects belonging to the United States and kept in the Executive Mansion. 
The official household consists of a private and assistant secretaries, two ex- 
ecutive clerks, one steward and one messenger. The steward of the President's 
household, under the direction of the President, is responsible for the plate, 
furniture and other public property in the President's House, and must give a 
bond to the United States for a f tithful discharge of his trust. Jefferson was 
the first President inaugurated in Washington The first inaugural addres.-> 
delivered outside the Senate Chamber was by Monroe. The executive has no 
powers except in conjunction with the legislative branch Previous to the 
adoption of the Constitution the executive power was vested in Congress. 



DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 

The Department of State, (open daily from 9J a. m. to 2| 
p. m., except Thursdays, devoted exclusively to the diplomatic 
corps, and Saturdays, during sessions of Congress, to members,) 
occupies the S. pavilion of the imposing edifice, immedi- 
ately W. of the President's House. 

The Building: — This vast structure, erected for the 
accommodation of the Departments of State, War and Navy, 
designed by A. B. Mullett, Supervising Architect of the 
Treasury, consists of three harmonious buildings united by 
connecting wings, and together forming in design and exe- 
cution, the finest edifice of the kind in the world. 

The style is the Roman Doric (Italian Renaissance), 
originally treated. It combines the massive proportions of 
ancient with the elegance of modern architecture. The 
dimensions from N. to S., including pavilion projections and 
steps, are 567 ft., and from E. to W. 342 ft., or exclusive of 
projections, 471 ft. N. and S. and 253 ft. E. and W. The 
greatest height from the terrace level over all is 128 ft. 
There is a sub-basement and basement of Maine granite, and 



128 DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 

superstructure of Virginia granite, comprising four stories in 
the pavilions of the N". and S. facades, and one in the roof, 
and five stories and one in the roof in the E. and W. cen- 
tre pavilions. The whole is crowned by an artistically de- 
signed mansard roof. The building was commenced in 1871, 
and the S. pavilion finished and occupied by the Depart- 
ment of State in 1875. The entire structure has 150 
rooms, and cost $5,000,000. 

The building has four facades of equal importance, the N 
and S., and the E. and W. being respectively counterparts. 
There are two courts into which there are four private car- 
riage ways from the E. and W. The E. and W. facades pre- 
seut the appearance of a centre and two lateral wings. 
The centre is connected with the N. x and S. by two wings. 
There are four grand entrances by the N., S. and, E. W. centres 
of the pavilions approached by massive flights of steps 
through the projecting porticoes. The platforms are of im- 
mense blocks of granite, weighing over 20 tons each. There 
are four other entrances of less importance. The building 
is absolutely fire-proof. All the stone was dressed in the 
quarries. The sub-basement is devoted to storage, fur- 
naces and engines, the basement to bindery, storage and 
clerks' rooms. The remaining stories are divided into 
splendid apartments, for the uses of the various bureaus of 
the Department. 

Objects of Interest. — A. grand corridor, 15 ft. wide, and paved with 
marble, traverses each floor of the building from E. to W., and may be 
reached by an elevator fiom the basement to the attic. 

On the second floor , looking S. over the Potomac, is a magnificent suite of 
apartments for the use of the Secretary of State and his assistants. The 
Diplomatic Reception Room (4 and 6) is a sumptuous salon decorated in the 
Germanized Egyptian, in distemper, with marquetry floor, and furnishing of 
ebonized woods and gold brocade. On the walls are portraits of Daniel 
Webster by Geo. P. A. Healy, 1843, and Lord Ashburton by the same, 1848, 
purchased by Congress, 1879, $3>°°° each, from the widow of Fletcher Web- 
ster, and represent the principals in the negotiations of 1842, which settled 
the northern boundary question. On the consoles over the mantels are 
bronze heads by Bartholdi, 1876, K. Barbidienne Paris, of Washington and 
Lafayette. 

The rooms of the Secretary of State (12), First, Second and Third Assis- 
tants, and Chief Clerk on the same range, are chastely decorated in distem- 
per. The Diplomatic Ante Room, at the W. end of the corridor contains a 
life-size portait of the Bey of Tunis, sent by special envoy, 1865, with a letter 
ot condolence on the assassination of President Lincoln. Also of W. H. 

Seward, by Rufus Wright, and Daniel Webster, by Pope, from life. In 

the Ante Room at the E. end of the corridor is a collection of photographs 
and crayons of the Secretaries of State, commenced in 1865. 

On the third story is the Library. The alcoves in four tiers are entirely ot 
iron. Overhead is a glass canopy. The whole is finished in tint and gilt. 
The collection 0/ works embraces the finest library on questions of diplomacy 
on the continent. There are also many objects of historic value, including 
the original draft of the declaration of Independence, and the desk upon which 
it was wrjitten, presented by Jefferson to James Coolidge, jr., of Mass., and 
presented to the U. S. by his heirs, 1880; also the original instrument signed ; 
George Washington's sword, purchased 1880 by Congress, and commission as 



130 



DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 



commander-in-chief; staff of Benjamin Franklin ; treaties with England and 
Sweden, with immense seals ; a fac simile of a treaty between the Athenians 
and Chdcideans, 446-445 B. C, in the time of Pericles, engraved on a slab 
of Pentalic marble, found in 1876 in the S. wall of the Acropolis at Athens, 
and other objects of interest. 

In the Department are the original rolls 0/ all the laws of I he United 
States, the original draits of Revolutionary Documents, the Federal Consti- 
tution, the Diplomatic and Consular archives, including treaties and other 
documents of historic value from the foundation of the government. 

1 ne columns, pilasters, casings and beams in the corridors are of iron, the 
itoon throughout are of Honduras Mahogany. The spacious stairways at 
either end of the corridors are of granite, with exquisite bronze balusters ; over 
head is a -lucco canopy. There is an electric clock on each floor. The floors 
are of white Vermont and black Pennsylvania marbles. 

Secretaries of State — 1789, Thomas Jefferson, Va.; 1794, Edmund Ran- 
dolph, Va.; 1795, Timothy Pickering, Mass.; 1800, John Marshall, Va.; 1801, 
James Madison, Va.; 1809, Robert Smith, Md.; 1811, James Monroe, Va.; 
1817, John Q. Adams, Mass.; 1825*, Henry Clay Ky.; 1829, Martin Van Buren, 
N. Y.; 1831, Edward Livingston, La.; 1833, Louis McLane, Del.; 1834, John 
Forsyth, Ga.: 1841, Daniel Webster, Mass.; 1843, Hugh S. Legare, S. C; 1843, 

A. P. Upshur, Va.; 1844, John Nelson, Md.; 1844, J. C. Calhoun. S. C; 1845, 
James Buchanan, Penn.; 1849, J. M. Clayton, Del.; 1850, Daniel Webster, 
Mass.; 1852, Edward Everett, Mass.; 1853, W. L. Marcy, N. Y.; 1857, Lewis 
Cass, Mich.; i860, Jer. S. Black, Penn.; 1861, W. H. Seward, N. Y.; 1869, E. 

B. Washburne, 111.; 1869, Hamilton Fish, N. Y ; 1877, William M. Evarts, N. Y. 
1881, James G. Blaine, Me. 

History of the Department. — Before the adoption of the Constitu- 
tion of the United States the "Department of Foreign Affairs" was under the 
direction of an officer styled tl Secretary to the United States of America for the 
I )eparnnent of Foreign Affairs.'' 

On July 27 and September 15, 1789, it was created a Department, 
and the chief officer styled the Secretary of State. He is ex officio a 
member of the President's Cabinet, and carries out his instructions in all 
matters relating to diplomatic intercourse with foreign nations, negotiates 
treaties, instructs 
ministers and con- 
suls ot the U. S., 
grants passports to 
citizens of the U. S. 
leaving the coun- 
try ; is the custo- 
dian of the Seal of 
the U. S., and uses 
it under orders 
from the President, 
prepares and at- 
tests commissions 
granted to all offi- 
cers of the U. S. 
confirmed by the 
Senate, and super- 
intends the publi- 
cation of all acts 
and resolutions of 
Congress, and for 
eign and Indian 
sreaties, and pre- 
terves the originals 
of the same. 




TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 131 



TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 

The Treasury Department (open to the public daily, except 
Sunday, from 9 a. m. to 2 p. m.) lies E. of the President's 
House, on the line of 15th St., and may be reached from the 
E. or W. by the Pennsylvania-av. line of street cars. 

The Building. This consists of a basement and sub-base- 
ment of rustic work, three stories of the pure Grecian 
Ionic order, and an attic, surmounted by a balustrade. It 
measures 468 ft. from N. to S., and 264 ft. from E. to W., 
and inclusive of porticoes and steps, 582 ft. by 300 ft., and 
has four fronts. The western, consisting of a colonnade after 
the style of Minerva Pallas at Athens, 336 ft. long, with 30 
Ionic colums of Virginia freestone, and flanked at either 
.end by a recessed portico. The remaining facades are of 
Dix Island (Me.) granite. The east front, facing the Presi- 
dent's House, is broken by a central portico of 8 monolithic 
pillars, and 2 in the recess in the centre and the same on 
the sides, and reached by a broad flight of steps. Small 
porticoes, corresponding with the central one, are at either 
end of the W. front. The north and south fronts have a 
central portico, the same as that on the west. 

The steps on these fronts descend to broad tessellated platforms. On that 
on the north is a fountain, the tassa 12 ft. in diameter, cut from a single block 
of granite. The shafts of all the granite columns are monolithic, 31% ft. high, 
4 ft. in diameter, and weigh 33 tons. The pilasters, the same, weigh 6 tons. 
The cap-stones'of the blockings against which the steps abut measure 18 ft. by 
17 ft. and 20 inches high, and weigh 43 tons. The building has 4 principal en- 
trances, and on the N., W. and E., are beautiful parterres. 

The interior consists of 2 hollow squares, 138x123 ft., separated by a wing 
120 ft. long by 57 ft. wide. At the west entrance is a vestibule, formed of 6 
Doric columns, supporting groined arches and tastefully decorated. The cor- 
ridors to the N. and S. lead to those wings, and the centre one to the west en- 
trance. A double stairway at either end of the latter ascends to the upper 
stories, and another leads to the basement and sub-basement, where are ma- 
chine shops, engine rooms, etc., in the latter, and in the former storerooms and 
offices. On the principal and upper stories are the official apartments 0/ the 
Secretary of the Treasury , and Bureaus of the Department. The corridors 
of the new portions of the building are broken by iron columns and pilas- 
ters, with ornamented capitals. The building contains 200 rooms independent 
of the basement and attic, and cost $6,000,000. 

The east or old portion of the buildii.g occupies the site of the old south- 
eastern Executive building, destroyed by fire in 1833, rebuilt in its present mag- 
nificence 1836-41, from plans by Robert Mills. This part was T shape. The N., 
IV. and S. extensions were designed 1855, by Walter, architect of" the capital, 
begun by Young, continued by Rogers, and completed by A. B. Mullet. 

Objects of Interest. — The Office of the Secretary of the Treasury is a 
beautiful apartment on the second floor, on the S. side of the south corridor. 
The Cash Room, entrance on the first floor, N. corridor. The balcony is en- 
tered by a door from the S. corridor on the second floor. The most attractive 
features of the room are the walls, which are of highly polished marbles of 
beautiful variety, as follows : Lower Story — stylobate, base, black, Ver- 
mont; mouldings, Bardiglio, Italian: stiles, dove, Vermont; panels, Sienna, 
Italian; dies, Tennessee. Above stylobate, pilasters and panel beads, 



132 TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 

white-veined, stiles, Sienna, Italian ; panels, Bardiglio, Italian ; cornice, 
white-veined, Italian. Upper Story — stylobate same as lower. Above 
stylobate as in lower story, except the panels, which are Sarrangolum marble 
from the Pyrenees. The vaults, in which the current funds of the Govern- 
ment are kept, may be seen on a "written permit from the Treasurer of the 
United States, office in the NE. angle of the building, first floor, deliver to 
the Cashier, first door W. of the entrance to the Cash Room. The vaults are 
of steel and chilled iron, about 20 by 15 ft. Another of the same capacity is 
overhead. The amount usually in the vault is about $10,000,000, including 
gold coin. The money is kept in packages or bags in the wooden cases. Near 
the door of the vault is an elevator, used for conveying money between the 
vaults above and the express office immediately below. As much as $5,000,000 
have been shipped to the different sub-treasuries in a single day. The vault 
n which the national bank bonds are kept is on the same floor, near by, the 
permit being delivered to the Chief of the Division of National Banks, whose 
office is in the NW. angle of the building. In the basement are two reserve 
vaults, not open to visitors at all. 

The Counting of the Currency may be seen through the doorways on the 
right of the west corridor, N. end. None but employees are permitted to enter. 
The counting is done entirely by lady clerks. The facility and accuracy with 
which they accomplish their work are marvelous. 

The Library on the S. corridor third floor contains 8,000 volumes of the 
choicest works in every branch of literature. It is for the use of the employees. 

The Redemption Division, N. corridor of the basement; the currency unfit 
for circulation, and received from all parts of the country, is here counted and 
cancelled previous to be burned. The cancelling is done by a machine run by 
a turbine wheel. A permit from the Treasurer must be obtained, the same 
as for a visit to the vaults. 

The Rooms of the Supervising Architect of the Treasury in the basement, 
W. corridor S. end, contain a number of suberb drawings of public buildings 
erected by the government. The general features of inerest in the building 
are the north, west and south corridors, and the gracefully designed granite 
stairways leading from them. See Portraits of the Secretaries , Page 135. 

Photograph Office. — Opposite the S. entrance is the 
building occupied by the Photographer of the Treasury 
Department. Here fac similes of accounts for verification 
by agents sent throughout the country or abroad, and 
plans and elevations of public buildings, are made by 
means of photography. This work is carried on on a large 
scale. 

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing. — This branch of the Treas- 
ury Department occupies a separate structure on the Mall, 
cor. 14th and B sts., S. W., between the Agricultural De- 
partment and Washington Monument. Visitors admitted 
from 9:30 to 11:45 a. m., and 12:30 to 2 p. m. Apply to 
officer of the watch, main entrance, for required pass from 
the Chief of Bureau. 

The building is 220 ft. long and 135 ft. wide, designed by James G. Hill, Su- 
pervising Architect of the Treasury; is of the Romanesque style; authorized 
by Congress, 1878 ; cost $300,000 ; was occupied July 6, 1880; is constructed 
of pressedbricks, above the basement with string courses of moulded bricks ; is 
fire-proof throughout, the floors consisting of iron girders and brick arches, the 
doors and window frames only being of wood. The North facade, facing the 
city, comprises a basement and three stories, surmounted by an artistic cor- 
nice, and broken by three pavilions, that at the N. E., rising into a belfry 
tower 130 ft. high. The South facade, overlooking the Potomac river, is bro- 
ken by several chimneys of architectural designs. The west carries off the 
fumes of the hardening rooms, and is built of massive walls to resist the action 



134 



TREASURY DEPARTxMENT. 



of the fumes of the acids used in hardening the plates. The elevator towers 
are also of beautiful designs. The stack irom the boiler rooms in the rear is 
too ft. high. . 

On the Principal story are the entrance hall in the belfry to'wer, lined with 
ornamental and colored brick, and the stairway of iron and brass railing, with 
ornamental and enamel brick, wainscoting. Near by are the rooms of tl.e offi- 
cer of the watch an 1 administrative offices. On this floor are the vaults, with 
time-locks ot the most delicate mechanism, generally set from 4 p. m. to 7 a. 
m.; the hardening room, where softened rollers and plates containing the de- 
signs are hardened (or use by being put into furnaces with heated cyanide of 
potassium: transfer; geometric lathe ; dressing and washrooms. 

The plate vault, guarded day and night by tru>ted watchmen, contains all 
the engraved plates of the government. The chief custodian is under the Sec- 
retary nf die Treasury, and delivers plates for printing only upon the Secreta- 
ry ^ r Icr, and requires them to be restored at the close of work hours. 




THE BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING. 

In the basement, reached from the main hall-way, are clerks' offices ; bind- 
ery ; perforating, gumming, ruling, steam plate press, engine and boiler rooms, 
and ink mill. There are 8 boilers, 40 H. P. each, and 2 engines 200 H. P. and 
6 j H. P., and 3 elevators. 

In the sub-basement are the machine shops for the repair of the machinery 
,ised. 

On the second floor are the draughting, destruction committee, numbering 
machine, examining, hydraulic press (202 tons pressure) rooms, also the stock 
vault 65x12 ft. of chilled steel and masonry and double doors with time and mag- 
net lock. 

On the third floor, hand plate press and wetting rooms. 

On the fourth floor (attic), dressing rooms, male in the E. end and females 
in the W. end. Also ventilators and fans. 

The toiuer is ascended by an iron spiral staircase : in the first landing is the 
tower clock, and above, a lookout. 

The boiler house in the rear, 2 stories high, contains rooms for the destruc- 
tion of defective bank-notes, furnace room and laundry. The building is heated 
by hot water, and ventilated by machinery. 



TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 



135 



Office of the Coast Survey, erected 1871 (rented), 
brick fire-proof, S. E. of the Capitol, on New Jersey av. 

This service, established in 1807, is charged with the survey of the coasts of 
the U. S. on tide water. The standard weights and measures are kept 
nere, from which standards are furnished to the different States. 

Secretaries of the Treasury and their Portraits. — In the south corridor 
of the second floor of the Department may be seen a collection of portraits 
of the Secretaries of the Treastiry ; cost, $500 each. 1789, Alexander 
Hamilton, N. Y., by Miss C. L. Ransom, 1880, after original in City Hall, 
New York; 1795, Oliver Wolcott, Jr., Conn., Richard M. Staigg, 1880, after 
rrumbull, 1806, for Josiah Quincy ; 1 801, Samuel Dexter, Mass., no portrait 
painted ; 1801, Albert Gallatin, Pa., Matthew Wilson, 1880. from family 
portrait ; 1814, George W. Campbell, Temi., no portrait painted ; 1814, A. J. 
Dallas, Pa., F. Thorp, 1880; 1816, Wm. H. Crawford, Ga., Henry Ulke, 

1879, after Huntington ; 1825, Richard Rush, Pa., Mrs. C. Adele Fassett, 

1880, from family portrait ; 1829, Samuel D. Ingham, Pa., no portrait 
painted; 1831, Louis McLane, Del., no portrait painted ; 183^, W. J. Duane, 
Pa., no portrait painted; 1833, Roger B. Taney, Md., Ulke, 1881, from 
photograph for Secretary Chase; 1834, Levi Woodbury, N. H., Henry A. 
Loop, 1080, after portrait from life ; 1841, Thomas Ewing, Ohio, Wm. Garl 
Brown, 1879; 1841, Walter Forward, Pa., Thorp, 1881, from family portrait; 
1843, John C. Spencer, N. Y., no portrait painted; 1844, Geo. M. Bibb, Ky., 
Ulke, 1880, from family portrait ; 1845. Robert J. Walker, Miss , Brown, 
1879 ! i 849j Wm. M. Meredith, Pa., no portrait painted : 1850, Thomas Corwin, 
Ohio, J. H. Witt, 1880 ; 1853, James Guthrie, Ky., E. F. Andrews, 
1880; 1857, Howell Cobb, Ga., no portrait painted ; i860, Philip F. Thomas, 
Md., no portrait painted; 1861, John A. Dix, N. Y., no portrait painted; 
1861, Salmon P. Chase, Ohio, Ulke, 1880, from water color from life; 1864, 
Wm. P. Fessenden, Me., Frederick P. Vinton, 1880, after family portrait; 
1865, Hugh McCullough, Ind., no portrait painted; 1869, Geo. P. Boutwell, 
Mass., no portrait painted; 1873, Wm. A. Richardson, Mass., Richard M. 
Staigg, 1880, from life ; 1874, Benjamin H Bristow, Ky., no portrait painted; 
1876, Lot M. Morrill, Me., A. H. Bicknell, 1880, from life ; 1877, John 
Sherman, Ohio, no portrait painted ; 1881, Wm. Windom, Minn. 



History of the 
Departm e nt . — 

The Department 
of the '1 reasury 
was organized by 
Congress Sept. 2, 
1789, with a Secre- 
tary of the Treas- 
ury, ex officio a 
member of the 
President's Cabi- 
net, as its chief 
officer. He has 
charge of the col- 
lection of the reve- 
nue, disbursements 
of money, makes 
estimates of reve- 
nues and expendi- 
tures for Congress, 
for approprations, 
reports information 
to Congress, and 
performs all ser- 
vices relative to the 
finances. 




136 WAR DEPARTMENT. 



WAR DEPARTMENT. 

The War Department (open every day, Sundays excepted, 
from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M.) occupies the northern half of the 
east connecting wing of the vast edifice erected for the ac- 
commodation of the Departments of State, War and Navy. 
(For description see page 127.) The east wing was formally 
turned over to the Secretaries of War and Navy, April 16, 
1879, length 341 ft., depth of curtains 62, height to top of 
centre pavilion ventilator 135 ft., rooms 173, windows 412, 
cost $2,500,000. 

This wing will ultimately be entirely occupied by the Navy Department. 
On the north wing, for the occupancy of the War Department, excavations for 
foundations commenced June 17, 1879. The demolition of the Northwest Ex- 
ecutive Building, erected 18 18, and occupied by the War Department, began 
April 7, 1879. The portico, consisting of six plain columns with Ionic capi- 
tals, entablature, and two antee of sandstone, was removed, under the direc- 
tion of the Quartermaster General of the Army, to be utilized at the portals of 
the Arlington National Cemetery. 

Objects of Interest in the 'War Department. — Note. — Visitors to the 
Building can enter any of the apartments simply to view them by permission 
of the chief clerk or the ushers at the door. 

The basement, reached from the sidewalk contains nothing of special inter- 
est. The sub-basement, reached by the centre main steps, contains the ma- 
chinery for the elevators, pumps, heating and ventilating apparatus, boilers, 
coal vaults and store rooms. 

First Floor (Room 55), on the r. of the main entrance, the headquarters 
of the Army. The General receives by card from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. In this 
suite of apartments is an interesting gallery, mostly taken from family por- 
traits, collected by Col. Audenreid, of the senior officers commanding the ar- 
mies of the United States — George Washington, of Virginia, 1775-83 and 
179S-99; Henry Knox, of Massachusetts, 1783-84; Josiah Harmer, of Penn- 
sylvania, 1789-91 ; Arthur St. Clair, of Pennsylvania, 1791-92 ; Anthony 
Wayne, of Pennsylvania, 1792-96 ; James Wilkinson, of (b. in) Maryland, 
1796-98 and 1800-12 ; Alexander Hamilton, of New York (senior officer upon 
death of Washington), 1 799-1800 ; Henry Dearborn, of Massachusetts, 1812-15 ; 
Jacob Brown, of Pennsylvania, 1815-28 ; Alexander Macomb, of Michigan, 
1828-41 ; Winfield Scott, of Virginia, 1841-61 ; George Brinton McClellan, of 
(b. in) Pennsylvania, 1861-62 ; Henry Wager Halleck, of New York, 1862-64; 
Ulysses Simpson Grant, of Illinois, 1864-69 ; William Tecumseh Sherman, of 
Ohio, 1869. 

Also oil paintings of General Andrew Jackson, of Tennessee, taken imme 
diaiely after the battle of New Orleans, and finished in 1836; General Zach 
ary Taylor, of Louisiana, from life, 1846; Generals George Gordon Meade, of 
Pennsylvania, and James Birdseye McPherson, of Ohio, and other general offi 
cers of the Army. Also a series of oil paintings representing scenes on th 
frontier , by N. H. Trotter, of Pennsylvania, Wounded Buffaloes pursued b> 
Prairie Wolves, 1876, the The Last Stand, 1876, Herd of Elk, 1878, Grizzly 
Bears, 1879. Also the original pen and ink copies of Life Studies in tht 
Army, by Edwin Forbes, of New York, awarded the Centennial medal for the 
finest drawing. 

The rest of this corridor is occupied by the various staff departments. 




1 '- ''ftp 



138 WAR DEPARTMENT. 

The Second Floor (Room 93). The office of the Secretary of War and re- 
ception room adjoining, constitute a beautiful suite of apartments artistically 
finished in encaustic and oil, and luxuriously furnished. Here is a valuable 
and interesting collection 0/ portraits 0/ the Secretaries 0/ War from the 
foundation of the Government, cost $305 each, and painted authority Congress. 

Secretary of War, 1789, Henry Knox, of Massachusetts, portrait by 

Young, after Charles Gilbert Stuart ; 1795, Timothy Pickering, of Massachu- 
setts, by Edwin Bracket, after Stuart; 1796, James McHenry. of Maryland, 
by Daniel Huntingdon, after Pollock ; 1800, Samuel Dexter, of Massa- 
chusetts, by Bracket ; 1801, Roger Griswold, of Connecticut, no portrait painted; 
1801, Henry Dearborn, of Massachusetts, by Huntingdon, after Stuart ; 1809, 
William Eustis, of Massachusetts, by Bracket: 1813, John Armstrong, of New 
York, by Huntingdon, after John Vanderlyn : 1814, James Monroe, ot Virginia, 
by Robert W. Weir; 1815, Alexander J. Dallas, of Pennsylvania, ad interim, 
by Ph. Morton; 1815, William H. Crawford, of Georgia, by Huntington, after 
John Wesley Jarvis ; 1817, George Graham, of Virginia, ad interim, by Hun- 
tington, after Charles King ; 1817, John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, by 
Jarvis : 1825, James Barbour, of Virginia, by Henry Ulke ; 1828, Peter B. 
Porter, of New York, by Huntington, after Weir; 1829, John H. Eaton, of 
Tennessee, by Weir : 1831, Lewis Cass, of Michigan, by Huntington, after 
George Peter, Alexander Healy ; 1836, Benjamin F. Butler, of New York, 
ad interim, by Weir ; 1837, Joel Poinsett, of South Carolina, by Weir, after 
Thomas Sully; 1841, John Bell, of Tennessee, by T.L.Clear; 1841, John 
McLean, of Ohio, no portrait painted; 1841, John C. Spencer, of New York, 
by Weir; 1843, James M. Porter, of Pennsylvania, by Huntington; 1844, 
William Wilkins, of Pennsylvania, by Weir ; 1845, William L. Marcy, of New 
York, by Ulke ; 1849, George W. Crawlord, of Georgia, by Huntington ; 1850, 
General Winfield Scott, ad interim, army, by Weir ; 1850, Charles M. Con- 
rad, of Louisiana, by Huntington ; 1853, Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, by 
Huntington; 1857, John B. Floyd, of Virginia, by Huntington; 1861, Joseph 
Holt, of Kentucky, by Weir; 1861, Simon Cameron, of Pennsylvania, by 
Henry Thorpe ; 1862, Edwin M. Stanton, of Ohio, by Weir ; 1867, U. S. Grant, 
ad interim, army , by Ulke; 1868, General Lorenzo 1 nomas, ad interim, 
army, no portrait painted ; 1868, John M. Schofield, of Illinois, by H. P. Cur- 
tis ; 1869, John A. Rawlins, of Illinois, by Weir ; 1869, W. T. Sherman, 
pro tempore, army, by Healy ; 1869, William W, Belknap, of Iown, by Hun- 
tington; 1876, A. Taft, of Ohio, by Huntingdon; 1876, James D. Cameron, 
of Pennsylvania, by Huntington ; 1877, George W. McCrary, Iowa, by Ulke ; 
1879, Alexander Ramsey, ot Minnesota. 1881, Robert T Lincoln, 111. 

Private Secretary 's Room (92 ). Portraits of General George Rogers Clarke, 
of Virginia, by Peter Bomgrass ; i860, General Clarke's occupation of the 
North-western Territory, secured by the treaty of 1783, the boundary line of 
the Great Lakes instead of the Ohio River; General Horatio Gates, of New 
York, President of the Board of War; 1777, by Huntington, General George 
Washington, Commander in Chief of the Continental Army ; 1775, by Hunting- 
ton, after Stuart, General Benjamin Lincoln, of Massachusetts, Secretary of 
War; 1781, a copy of Sergeant's head, by J. A. Young ; General John Arm- 
strong, of Pennsylvania, by Huntington, after Vanderlyn; General Winfield 
Scott, Secretary of War, ad interim, 1850. 

In the Chief Clerk's Room is a collection oT twelve small paintings of spirit, 
by G. H Walker, representing the campaign against the City of Mexico. 

Third Floor (Room 116;. The Library, comprising 25,000 volumes, mostly 
on military subjects and a selected list of miscellaneous works and military 
maps. The cases were designed Ly H. T. Crosby, Chief Clerk. It also con- 
tains many rare and valuable manuscripts relating to the military history of 
the country. 

Fourth Floor Nothing of special interest. 



WAR DEPAETMENT. 



139 



Other places of interest under the War Department, as 
the Arsenal, Medical and Ordnance Museums, the latter in 
Winder's Building, will be found under appropriate heads. 
In the Flag Rooms, No. 616 17th street, opposite the War 
Department (open from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. daily, except Sunday), 
are the battle-torn United States and State flags taken from 
the national forces and recovered upon the capture of 
Richmond, and captured Confederate flags. They repre- 
sent every State. 

Signal Office. — {Open every day, except Sunday, from 12 a. m. to 3 p. m.) 
The Chief Signal Officer of the Army, under whose direction the national 
weather observations are made, occupies two contiguous brick buildings on 
G street, W. of the War Department. The wires entering the building con- 
nect the office with the different stations in all parts of the country, through the 
lines of the general telegraphic companies. 

The entrance for visitors is by the door No. 1719. Ascend to the Instru- 
ment Room, in the fourth story. Here may be seen the apparatus employed 
in the various meteorological observations, including the barometer for atmos- 
pheric pressure, and to indicate the passage of storms ; the thermometer , 
mercurial and spirit, for temperature ; the hygrometer, humidity ; the anem- 
ometer, for velocity of the wind ; the ivind-vane, or anemoscope , for direction 
of the wind ; and rain gauge, for rain-fall. 

On the roof of the building are rain-gauges, wind-vanes, and anemometers, 
with self-registering instruments in room below. There is a complete set of self- 

On Nov. 1, 1870, at 7 35 a. m.. the first systematized synchronous meteoric 
reports ever taken in the United States were read from the instruments by the 
observer sergeants of the signal service at 24 stations, and placed upon the tele- 
graphic wires for transmission. In Oct., 1871, the display of cautionary sig- 
nals was inaugurated at ports on the Atlantic and the Gulf coast and the north- 
ern lakes. The sphere of usefulness of this important service is annually ex- 
tended. 
History of the 

Depar tment: — 

Prior to 1 789 the Sec- 
retary of War W3.S 

charged with the di- 
rect management of 

the military affairs of 

Congress. The office 

was created an ex 

ecutive department 

August 7, 1789. The 

Secretary was then 

required to execute 

the orders of the 

President of the 

United States in all 

matters respecting 

military, naval or 

Indian affairs. The 

Secretary of War is 

now restricted un- 
der tne direction of 

the President to 

jurisdiction over 

the military service 

only. He is ex of- 
ficio a member of 

the Cabinet. 




140 NAVY DEPARTMENT. 

NAVY DEPARTMENT. 

The Navy Department (open every day, except Sunday, 
from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) occupies the south half of the east 
connecting wing of the State, War and Navy Department 
Building. (For description of the general building see page 
127, and for east wing page 138.) The Naval Observatory, 
Navy Yard and Marine Barracks are described under their 
appropriate heads. The Nautical Almanac office for the 
computation of astronomical tables for the Observatory 
the Navy and Merchant service, established 1849, at Cam 
Dridge, Mass., and removed to Washington, 1866, is also 
in quarters away from the Department. 

Objects of Interest in the Building : 

Basement. — In the Hydrographic office where charts are made and the depot 
of all hydrographic information for the use of the navy and commerce, is the 
largest chart printing press in the United States. The sub-basement, entered 
from the middle stairs, contains the machinery, heating and ventilating apparatus. 

The First Floor contains Bureau offices. 

On the Second Floor (Room 97) is the Office of the Secretary of the Navy, 
a magnificent apartment with Marquetry floor, walls finished in gilt and colors 
in the Greek style of decoration ; furnishings very rich. The chief clerk's 
office adjoining is also a fine room. 

The Third Floor is devoted to the Bureaus of the Department. 

On the Fourth Floor is the Library in the centre pavilion, the walls, ceil- 
ings, gallery-flooring, wainscoting and cases of cast iron, and floor encaustic 
tiles. The panels in the walls consist of marbles, the red being Griotte, the 
green, Alpine; the yellow, Sienna, and the chocolate, Lake Champlain, (Vt.) 
The niches are finished in bronze, cast iron plates, and in each are artistic gas 
brackets, in pure bronze, cast 1880, by Bureau Brothers and Heaton, of 
Philadelphia, in the first story the figures representing Science, War, Industry 
and Liberty, those in the gallery being allegorical of the Navy. 

The dome or skylight overhead consists of heavy iron frames, and white and 
colored glass. The arrangement is in two stories with a gallery and archways 
on the N. and S. sides leading to the alcoves for books and hand elevators. 

Fifth Floor. In the center pavilion the door leads to the gallery of the 
Library. Overhead is a beautiful skylight of iron and colored glass, The 
grand stairways of #ix flights each, four being geometrical, lead from the attic 
to the sub-basement, are wonders of construction, no two steps being alike, and 
being let into the wall 16 inches, and firmly wedged, forming a cantilever. The 
bronze balusters, 1106 in number, cast by the Hopkins and Dickinson Manu- 
facturing Co., cost $5.50 each, and are exceedingly fine. The hand rails and 
newel posts, are massive and rich in finish, being mahoganyfrom CentralAmerica. 

All the corridor floors are tiled in alternate white and black marble from 
Swanton, Vt. The upper landings are black marble from Glen Falls, N. Y. 

Secretaries of the Navy. — The War Department had charge of Naval 
affairs until 1798. 1798, George Cabot, Mass., declined; 1798, Benjamin Stod- 
dert, Md. ; 1801, Robert Smith, Md. ; 1805, Jacob Crowninshields, Mass.; 
1809, Paul Hamilton, S. C. ; 1813, William Jones, Pa. ; 1814, Benjamin W. 
Crowninshields, Mass.; 1818, Smith Thompson, N. Y. ; 1823, John Rogers, 
Mass. ; 1823, Samuel L. Southard, N. J. ; 1829, John Branch, N. C. ; 1831, Levi 
Woodbury, N. H. ; 1834, Mahlon Dickerson, N. J. ; 1838, James K. Pauld- 
ing, N. Y. ; 1841, G. E. Badger, N. C ; 1841, A. P. Upshur, Va. ; 1843, David 
Henshaw, Mass. ; 1844, T. W. Gilmer, Va. ; 1844, J- Y. Mason, Va. ; 1845, 
George Bancroft, Mass.; 1846, John V. Mason, Va. ; 1849, W. B. Preston Va. 
1850, W. A. Graham, N C; 1852, J. B. Kennedy, Md.; 1853, J. C. Dobbin, 
N. C.; 1857, Isaac Toucey, Conn.; 1861, Gideon Welles, Conn.; 1869, A. E. 
Borie, Pa.; 1869, G. M. Robeson, N. J.; 1877. Richard W. Thompson, Ind.; 
1880, Nathan Goff, Jr.; 1881, Wm. H. Hunt. La. 



142 



AAV 1 Ul±X'Al.i.i.*<jL.l^~, 




DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. 



History of the 
Departm e n t . — 

Until April, 1798, 
the naval service 
was under the War 
Department. Then 
it was given a sep- 
arate organization, 
and the chief offi- 
cer, who is ex offi- 
cio a member of the 
President's Cabi- 
net, was called the 
Secretary of the 
Navy. He was 
required to execute 
all the orders of the 
President affecting 
the naval establish- 
ment and marine 
corps. In 1862 the 
Bureaus of the De- 
partment were or- 
ganized, and all the 
details of adminis- 
tration under the 
Secretary of the 
Navy are per- 
formed by them. 



This department (open every day, except Sunday, from 9 a. 
m. to 3 p. m.) occupies offices in the vast structure known 
as the Patent Office. (For description see page 144.) 

Objects of Interest (Main Floor). — The Office of the Secretary of the 
Interior, at the south end of the E., corridor, a fine apartment containing a 

Collection of Crayons of the Secretaries of the Interior, by Henry Ulke, of 
Washington, 1881, $100 each, and oil paintings of Secretaries Thomas Ewing, 
of Ohio, and Caleb B. Smith, of Ind., by J. M. Stanley, 1861, #100 each, the 
Office oj the Commissioner of Patents, on the N. corridor, where will be 
found a set of engravings of the Commissioners, including a portrait of Dr. 
William Thornton of Penn., designer of the original plan of the Capitol, and 
Superintendent of Patents in the State Department, 1803-1827. A very valu- 
able portrait of Robert Fulton, of Penn., one of the inventors of the steam- 
boat, and painted by himself; Fulton studied under Benjamin West, of Penn., 
president of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, London. Also 8 artist proof 
engravings of celebrated inventors from original paintings in the collection 
of and presented by B. Woodcroft, of the Great Seal Patent Office, London. 
The Department Library, on the N. corridor, containing over 6,000 volumes 
for the use of employees in the building ; the Patent Office Library on the S. 
corridor, containing over 7,000 volumes bearing upon the mechanic and useful 
arts, and for reference in the library room, and the Indian Office where some- 
times may be seen the representatives of Indian nations, who have been 
brought to the Capitol in connection with negotiation of treaties or business 
arising under them. The remaining offices in the building possess no par- 
ticular interest to the general visitor. For description of Model Museum see 
page 147. 

Bureau of Education. — {Open every day, except Sunday, 
from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) — Occupies a rented building on the 
NE. corner of G and 8th sts NW„ There is a fine library 



GENERAL POST OFFICE. 



153 



The General Post Office originally occupied a building known as Blodgett's 
Union Public Hotel, on the south half of the square now occupied by the De- 
partment, designed by James Hoban, architect of the Executive Mansion, 
120 ft. long, 50 ft. wide, and 3 stories high, brick ornamented with freestone, 
commenced 1793, out of the proceeds of a lottery. The prize having been 
drawn by an orphan child, there were no means to finish the building. For a 
time it was used as a theatre, and its basement occupied by Irish and other 
emigrants. In 1810 the government purchased it. After the burning of the 
Capitol, Congress held one session in it. It was then occupied by the General 
and City Post Offices, Patent Office, and Library of Congress. The latter 
was removed to the Capitol in 1818. The building and contents were destroyed 
by fire Dec. 15, 1856. Private buildings were then occupied by those offices 
until the completion of the present structure. 

For engraving see page 141. 

In the Postmaster General's office is a. fine collection of photographs and 
crayons of the Postmasters General. 

Postmasters General. — 1789, Samuel Osgood, Mass.; 1791, Timothy Pick- 
ering, Mass.; 1795, Joseph Habersham, Ga.; 1802, Gideon Granger, Conn.; 
1814, R. J. Meigs, Ohio ; 1823, John McLean, Ohio ; 1829, VV. T. Barry, 
Ky.; 1835, Amos Kendall, Ky.; 1840, J. M. Niles, Conn.; 1841, Francis 
Granger, N. Y.; 1841, C. A. Wickliffe, Ky.; 1845, Cave Johnson, Tenn.; 
1849, Jacob Collamer, Vt.; 1850, N. K. Hall, N. Y ; 1852, S. D Hubbard, 
Conn.; 1853, James Campbell, Penn.; 1857, A. V Brown, Tenn.; 1859, J- 
Holt, Ky.; 1861, Horatio King, Me.; 1861, Montgomery Blair, Md.; 1864, W. 
Dennison, Ohio ; 1866, A. W. Randall, Wis.; 1869, J. A. J. Cresswell, Md.; 
1874, Marshall Jewell, Conn ; 1876, J. N. Tyner, Ind.; 1877, D. M. Key, 
Tenn.; 1880, Horace Maynard, Tenn.; 1881, Thomas L. James, N. Y. 



History of the General Post Office. — On Sept. 22 
ated the temporary establishment of the Post Office. 
Post Office" was perma- 
nently established under 
direction of a Postmaster 
General, authorized to 
provide for carrying the 
mails of the United States 
"by stage carriages or 
horses." From this prim- 
itive beginning the opera- 
tions of tne General Post 
Office have expanded to a 
degree fully up to the 
requirements of the in- 
creased population and 
intelligence of the people. 

The Postmaster Gen- 
eral, appointed by the 
President, is ex offit io a 
member of the Cabinet, 
but was not so recognized 
until President Jackson 
invited Postmaster Gen- 
eral Barry into the Cabi- 
net in 1839. 



1789, Congress cre- 
In 1792 a " General 




154 



DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. 

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. 



The Department of Justice [open every day, except Sun- 
day, from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) occupies the upper floors of a 
fine building on Pennsylvania av., between 15 and 15^ 
sts., and opposite the Treasury Department, erected by 
the Freedmen's Savings and Trust Company. 

Objects of Interest.— The Gallery of Paintings of the 
Attorneys General of the United States, is iu the Attorney 
General's room, 




DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. 

The Attorneys-General and their Portraits. — In the office of the At- 
torney-General is a fine collection of portraits of the Attorneys-General of the 
United States. They maybe seen by permission of the Attorney-General 
through the chief clerk or the usher at the door. 



DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. 



355 



1789, Edmund Randolph, of Va., portrait painted by James M. Stanley, 

1856, from a family portrait, $50; 1794, Wm. Bradford, Pa., W. E. Winner, 
1872, $200 ; 1795, Charles Lee, Va., Stanley, 1858, $60, from an original por- 
trait ; 1801. Levi Lincoln, Mass., name artist unknown ; 1805, Robert Smith, 
Md., Freeman Thorp, 1873, $750; 1805, John Breckenridge, Ky., A. J. Co- 
nant, 1864, $180 ; 1807, Caesar A, Rodney, Del., S. B. Waugh, 1870, $250; 
1811, Wm. Pinkney, Md., Stanley, 1856, after Peale, $50 ; 1814, Richard, 
Rush, Pa., Thomas Sully, 1858, gioo; 1817, Wm. Wirt, Va., Chas. B. King, 

1857, $75 ; 1829, J. M. Berrien, Ga., John Maier. 1870, $152; 1 831, Roger 
B. Taney, Md., J. M. Campbell, 1856, $100; 1833, B. F. Butler, N. Y., Stan- 
ley, 1856, $70 ; 1838, Felix Grundy, Tenn., G. Dury, 1858, $75; 1840, H. D. 
Gilpin, Pa., J. R. Lambden, 1854, $60; 1841, J. J. Crittenden, Ky., Stanley 
1 §j6, $50; {841, H S. Legare, S C, Stanley, 1858, $60; 1843, John Nelson, 
Md., F. Thorp, 1872, $500; 1845, John Y. Mason, Va., E. F. Andrews, 1880, 
$350, after Sully; 1846^ Nathan Clifford, Me., G. P. A. Healy, 1876, $456; 
1848, Isaac Toucey, Conn.. Stanley, 1857, $&° 5 I %49> Reverdy Johnson, Md., 
Stanley, 1856, $50; 1850, J. J. Crittenden, Ky.,see 1841; 1853, Caleb Cushing, 
Mass., Stanley, 1857, $60, after Carpenter; 1857, Jeremiah S. Black, Pa., Win- 
ner, 1872, $500 ; i860, E. M. Stanton, Ohio, F. B. Carpenter, 1865, #200; 1861, 
Edward Bates, Mo., A. J. Conant, 1861, $500; 1864, Jas. Speed, Ky., Healy, 
1865, $250 ; 1866, Henry Stanberry, Ohio, Jared B. Flagg, 1869, $800 ; 1868, 
O. H. Browning, 111., no portrait painted; 1868, Wm. M. Evarts, N. Y., 
W. M.Hunt, 1870, $750; 1869, Ebenezer C. Hoar, Mass., Hunt, 1870, $802 ; 
1870, Amos T. Ackerman, Ga., Thorp, 1875, $500; 1872, Geo. H. Williams, 
Oregon, Thorp, 1S75, $750 ; 1875, Edwards Pierrepont. N. Y., D. Hunting- 
ton, 1875, $1305 ; 1876, Alphonso Taft, Ohio, Thorp, 1877, $750; 1877, Chas. 
Devens, Mass., D. Huntington, 1881, $750 ; 1881, Wayne MacVeagh, Pa. no 
portrait painted, 1881. 

The Court of Claims. — In the first story is the Court of Claims of the 
Uuited States, occupied 1879, established 1855, to hear and determine all 
claims under acts of Congress or Executive Departments, or referred to it by 
them. From 1855 to 1879 '' occupied rooms in the basement of the western 
central projection of the capitol. It consists of a chief and associate justices. 
The general sessions begin the first Monday in December. Adjournment 
usually in May or June. Fridays and Saturdays are devoted to writing up 
opinions. 

History of the De- 
partment.— The office 
of Attorney General, 
created Sept. 24, 1789, 
was made an Executive 
Department by act of 
Congress June 22, 1870. 
All prosecutions on be- 
half of the Government 
are conducted by this 
department. The At- 
torney General reports 
annually to Congress. 
He gives opinions upon 
all questions of law, 
when asked by the Pres- 
ident or heads of the 
Executive Departments. 
He is ex officio a mem- 
ber of his Cabinet. 

Under him are the 
officers of the District 
and Circuit Courts of 
the United States, Me- 
tropolitan Police, etc. 




156 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 

The Department of Agriculture {open daily, except Sunday, 
from 9 a.m. to 3 p. m.) occupies that portion of the Mall lying 
E. of 14th st., and between the Washington Monument and 
the Smithsonian Institution. The building commands a view 
of the business quarter of the city, and in turn itself makes a 
fine appearance from 13th st. W., which it faces. 

Grounds. — The grounds in the immediate vicinity of the 
building are beautifully laid out. On the N. front is a con- 
creted surface the entire length of the building, and 50 ft. 
wide, which makes a spacious carriageway to the main en- 
trance, and is also used by pedestrians. A terrace wall 
about 4 ft. high, ornamented with stone balusters and pedi- 
ments with plant vases, runs the length and parallel with 
the front of the building, and at a distance of about 100 yds. 
At each extremity of the wall is a small iron pavilion of 
suitable design. The terrace divides what are known as the 
Upper and Lower Gardens. The former is laid out in beds, 
with intervening walks, and is devoted to flowers, vases, and 
rustic statuary. The lower, and all the grounds lying in 
front of the building line, with the exception of the flower 
garden, have been laid out as an arboretum, with walks and 
drives, and a well-selected collection of the hardier trees and 
shrubs. The flower garden contains no shade trees, which 
affords an unbroken view of the building. The trees and 
plants in the arboretum are planted on strictly botanical 
rules, the order and tribe of plants being grouped. The 
effect, however, by careful arrangement of the blending 
types is peculiarly atttactive, and has not the formal appear- 
ance of a scientific classification. 

The collection embraces 1,600 species of plants. In the 
rear of the department building and plant houses are the 
Experimental Grounds, covering about 10 a., those lying in 
the rear of the plant houses being set apart for experimental 
gardening, and those in the rear of the building, and occu- 
pying the SE. angle of the enclosure, for the experimental 
orchards and stables and yard. The object of these grounds 
is for testing varieties of small fruits, seeds, and for the prop- 
agation and culture of hardy plants. Along portion of the 
In. line of the grounds, commencing at the W., are artificial 
lakes, rivers, and swamps, for the cultivation of type varieties 
of water and marsh plants. The plans for the grading and 
laying out of the grounds were prepared and carried into 



158 



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



execution in 1868, by William Saunders, of Penn., Superin- 
tendent of Gardens and Grounds. (Also see Plant Houses.) 
The Department Building-, designed by Adolph Cluss, ar- 
chitect, and completed in 1868, is of the renaissance style, 170 
ft. long by 61 ft. deep, with a finished basement, three full 
stories and Mansard roof. It was erected by contract, under 
the superintencence of the architect, is constructed of pressed 
brick, with brown-stone bases, belts, cornices, and trimmings, 
and cost, including apparatus for laboratory, $140,420. The 
front presents a centre building with main entrances, and is 
flanked by two wings. 




DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE — FIRST FLOOR. 

A. Main Entrance. — Doors, oak and ash woods Vestibule, 20 ft. square and 
16 ft. high. Floors, encaustic tiles of chaste design. Walls, paneled in encaustic 
paint. Ceilings, in frescoe, representing an arbor of vine foliage held by American 
eagles, with outspread wings. Ornamentation in arabesque, mingled with four 
medallions, illustrating, in landscape, light and shade and human figures, the four 
seasons of the year, divisions of the day, and ages of man. 

B. Main Staircase leading to the second floor and Museum of Agriculture. 

C and D. Private Stairs to the second floor and passage to.doai rooms and closets. 
The vestibule (A) opens into a wide corridor, from which the various offices, 20 ft. 
square, are entered. 

1. Ante Room, finished in bird's eye maple and black walnut, in panels, and 
represents a fine specimen of the application of wood to walls, known as "wood- 
hanging." 

2. Commissioner of Agriculture, finished in panels of bird's eye maple, bor- 
dered by friezes in mahogany and blistered walnut, alternating with paneled 
pilasters in mahogany and satin wood, all parted by curley maple, and relieved by 
a tracing of gilt. 

3. Private Office of Commissioner. The friezes are of birch, borders of 
black walnut, and panels of mountain ash. 

4. Library. A tastefully finished apartment, supplied with mahogany cases. 
The collection of works, S,ooo vols., forms the most complete agricultural library in 
the United States, and comprises nearly all the standard works on agriculture and 
kindred sciences, reports of all the State boards of agriculture, and agricultural, horti- 
cultural, and pomological societies, and the transactions of the leading agricultural 
and •oientific associations of England, France, Germanv, and Italy. The object •/ 



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



159 



th* Library is for -eference and used in the extensive correspondence of the Depart- 
ment. Persons interested are permitted to consult works, but not to take them 
from the room. Among the most interesting works is a set, 14 vols., on botany, 
illustrating the flora of Central Europe, published in Vienna, and presented by the 
Emperor of Austria. There are also portraits of a number of personages, among 
the number Marshall P. Wilder, of Boston, the distinguished horticulturist. 

5 to 8. Clerks' Rooms, finished in encaustic oil paint, plain, with frescoed 
ceilings. 

9. Chemist and Microcopist Room, is supplied with cases containing a collec- 
tion of minerals having an agricultural value. The chemist makes analyses of soils, 
fertilizers, and agricultural productions. The results are recorded for future refer- 
ence. The microscopist examines and reports upon the diseases of plants. 

10. Balance Room, contains a variety of balances used in the chemical work. 

11. Lauoratory, supplied with chemicals and other apparatus used in chemical 
experiments. A private stairway leads to the basement below, in which are fur- 
nances, ovens, and other necessary conveniences. The equipment of the Laboratory 
is very complete. 

iz. File Room. • 

13 and 14. Clerk's Room, finished in encaustic paint. 




DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, SECOND FLOOR. 

A. Stairs to the Botanical Museum, Taxidermists, and Modeless Rooms. 

B. Stairs to clerk's rooms. 

15. Museum of Agriculture. — Opposite the main entrance below, a double 
flight of stairs of wrought and cast iron, lighted by a large stained-glass window, 
leads to the second floor, and into the Museum of Agriculture. On the first landing 
is a plank 12.x 6% ft. from the giant redwood tree of California. The Museum Hall 
occupies the main building, and is 102 ft. long, 52 ft. wide, and 27 ft. high. A covea 
stuccoed cornice extends around the hall, broken at regular intervals by brack- 
ets, in which are wrought busts of Indians. The cove is ornamented by flowers and 
fruits, with medallion shields bearing the arms of the United States, and the States 
of the Union in 1868 in their chronological order. The ceiling is divided into 15 
panels, embellished with rosettes. A soft color, harmonizing with the ornamenta- 
tion of the hall, is employed generally on the walls. For the accommodation and 
security of the agricultrual collection, the hall has been supplied with dust-proof wal- 
nut cases of chaste design. 

The Museum (which will be explained by an attendant) shows the agricultural 
productions of the United States, and manufactures therefrom, also how the former 
are affected by climate, insects, birds, and animals — injurious and beneficial. It is 
divided into general, State, and economic. The general division illustrates the his- 
tory of agricultural products. The fruits and vegetables are modeled in plaster of 
Paris, and colored in oil, to represent nature. The State and economic divisions, 
when completed, will show in a single case the mineral and agricultural productions, 



160 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 

and economic substances manufactured therefrom, of each State. The principal ob- 
ject »f the museum is utility, to include all the products of agriculture, and bearihg 
upon the increase of knowledge in that important branch of industry. 

In the centre of the hall is a table of California redwood 7x12 ft. finished in other 
native woods, and presented by gentlemen in California. The vase on the table is 
made of Coquina or Florida shell rock from St. Augustine, Florida, taken from the 
foundation of the residence of the early Spanish colonial governors. 

Cases North Range commencing on the W. The shelf numbers count from 
below. The injurious birds have a perch with a partly black end, and beneficial, white. 

1. Not yet erected. It is proposed, however, to place this case shortly. 

2. 1, American ducks; 2, American small birds, arranged to show benefit or in- 
jury, with contents of stomachs in small boxes; 3, American hawks and owls. 

3. 1, animals — domestic and farm pests; 2, American game birds; 3, gulls and 
aquatic birds. 

4 Domestic poultry. 

5. 1, Fish — prepared skins ; 2 and 3, foreign game birds that can be or have been 
domesticated. 

o. A case has been prepared for this space, and will be erected at once. 

7. Foreign game birds. 

g. California products and miscellaneous specimens. 

9. Grains and cereals — native. 

10. Grains and cereals— native. The middle and upper shelves arranged by 
States. 

11. 1 and 2, Temporary case of botanical specimens. 

12. I, Vegetable fibres — cotton. 

Cases South Range commencing on the E. 

12. Foreign woods, Sec. 

13. 1 and 2, Foreign grains, collected at the Paris Exposition 1867; 3, miscella- 
neous. 

14. I, Petroleum, tobacco; 2, sugar, syrups, ccc, Indian foods; 3, farinaceous 
products, gums, resins, &c. 

15. 1, Chinese paper; 2, American and foreign paper and paper-making mate- 
rials; 3, Japanese paper. 

16. Silk from egg to manufactured goods of highest quality. 

17. I, Animal fibres, angora wool; 2, vegetable fibres, ramie and aloes; 3, vege- 
table fibres, miscellaneous. 

18. 1, Vegetable fibres, cotton; 2, flax, flax cotton, aselepias; 3, New Zealand 
flax, agaue fibre and miscellaneous tropical fibres. In a case against the wall is a fine 
specimen of the cotton plant. 

19. The case designed for this space has not yet been erected. 

Centre of the Hall, commencing on the west. 

20. 1, Tropical fruits — southern apples; 2, apples, (models.) 

21. 1, Vegetables, (models;) 2, apples and pears, (models.) 

22. I, Vegetable, apples, fish, (models;) 2, pears, (models.) 

23. 1, Vegetables and fruits, (models;) 2, miscellaneous fruits and vegetables, 
(models,) fungi; (models and natural.) 

The plan of the museum was suggested and carried into operatiou by Townend 
Glover, entomologist of the Department. 

16. Statistician. — Here the monthly and annual reports and statistical informa- 
tion are compiled. 

17. Clerks of the Statistical Division. 

18. Ladies' Retiring Room, 
iq. Clerks. 

20. Cabinet of Entomology. — Tne room, 20 x 30 ft., is supplied with suitable 
walnut cases. The collection comprises the insects of the United States injurious 
and beneficial to agriculture, arranged scientifically, for reference. In the open 
cases is a small collection of insects for exhibition, and specimens of insect injur) 



DEPARTMENT OP AGRICULTURE. 



lfil 



end architecture, both ex- 
ceedingly interesting. 
The walls are hung with 
a'serles of about 300 plates, 
by Prof. Townend Glo- 
ver, illustrating the insects 
in the cabinet. 

2,1. Entomologist's 
Private Room. 

On the third floor, E. 
wing, reached from A, 
plan of the second floor, 
is the Botanical Museum. 
It is supplied with appro- 
priate cases, and contains 
200 natural orders and 
25,000 species of plants, a 
space being devoted to 
each order. The speci- 
mens are arranged on 
sheets and indexed. The 
first collection was trans- 
ferred from the Smithso- 
nian Institution, and 
comprised the specimens 
brought home by the 
Wilkes expedition. The 
specimens gathered by 
the various United States 
exploring exprditions are 
all deposited here. The 
collection of plants of the 
United States is very cm- 
plete. 

The rooms adjoining 
are occupied by the Tax- 
idermists on the W. and 
Modelers on the S. The 
former has the preparation 
of birds for the museum, 
and their care. The latter 
makes models of fruits for 
the museum. 

Over the third floor, W '. 
wing, reached from B, 
plan of the second floor, 
the rooms are used for 
clerks. 

Basement reached 

fiom B, first floor — con- 
tains Seed Rooms, in west- 
ern portion, and rest Fold- 
ing, Laborers', and Engi- 
neers' Rooms, and accom- 
modations for heating ap- 
paratus and fuel. The 
seed-packing department, 
where upwards of 60 per- 
sons are employed, is of 
great interest. 

11 




162 DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE. 

Plant Houses — On the W. of the department building are 
the plant houses, commenced in 1868 from designs by Wil- 
liam Saunders, Superintendent of Gardens and Grounds. 
The main structure is 320 ft. long and 30 ft. wide E. and W M 
with a wing 150 long projecting to the rear or S. of the centre 
of the main building. The centre pavilion is 60 ft. long, 32 
ft. wide, and 30 ft. high, and is devoted to palms and the 
larger tropical plants, such as bananas. The pavilions at 
the extremity of the wings are 30 ft. square, 26 ft. high, ? nd 
are the orangery, and for other semi-tropical fruits. Th y se 
terminal pavilions are joined to the centre by connect ng 
ranges 100 ft. long, 25 ft. wide, and 17 ft. high, and are c- 
cupied by the miscellaneous collection of plants of practi ftl 
use, such as medical plants and those furnishing textile fibr s, 
useful gums, sugars, and dyes. The S. projecting wing is 
the grapery, and contains a collection of foreign grapes. 1 e 
roots are planted in borders on the outside, and the ste» s 
conducted into the grapery through apertures in the bri K 
wall. The dark varieties are on the W. side, and the lig it 
on the E. There are 100 varieties in all. 

The plant houses are heated by means of hot water, circulated through 5,000 ft. 
of 4-in pipe, and supplied by two boilers. The boilers are arranged with a cut-off, 
so that they may be operated separately or together. 

These houses have foundation walls of red sandstone, with bluestone bases and 
caps. The doors and windows of the centre and wings are designed in moresque 
arches. Brackets uphold the^cornice from which the cupola roof rises. The main 
entrance projects from the main building, and has three arched openings The 
frame of the structure is of iron and wood substantially built, and cost $25,000. 
The roof is covered with American glass of double thickness, and curved expressly 
for the purpose. 

Commissioners of Agriculture. — 1862, Isaac Newton, Penn.; 1867, John W. Stokes 
Penn., (acting;) 1867, Horace Capron, 111.; 1871, Frederick Watts, Penn. x877« 
W. G. LeDuc. 1881, George B. Loring, Mass. 

UlStOry. —Under act July 4, 1836, Henry L.Ellsworth, Commissioner of Patents, 
gave attention to the distribution of rare grains, seeds, and plants, in the collection 
of which he was aided by the diplomatic and consular officers of the United States 
in foreign countries. In 1839 $1,000 were appropriated for the purpose. This gave 
rise to the agricultural division of the Patent Office. 

In 1S58 a Propagating Garden was established on that portion of the public grounds 
lying along the S. side of Missouri av., bet. 4^ and 6th sts. N., for the purpose of 
testing sorghum and Chinese sugar cane. In" 1868 these operations were removed 
to the present more extensive grounds. . 

The Department of Agriculture was established by act of Congress dated May I5, 
1862, "to acquire and diffuse among the people of the United States useful infor- 
mation on subjects connected with agriculture in the most general and comprehen- 
sive sense of that word, and to procure, propagate, and distribute among the people 
new and valuable seeds and plants." The chief executive officer was to be known 
as the Commissioner of Agriculture, to be appointed by the President and confirmed 
by the Senate. The Department, before occupying its present abode, had rooms in 
the basement of the Patent Office. 

There are now annually distributed about 1,200,000 packages of seeds, and 25,000 
bulbs, vines, cuttings, and plants. 

The publications cf the Department consist of an annual report of about 700 pagei 
octavo, 227,000 to 275,000 printed for distribution, and monthly reports of about 48 
pages octavo, on the condition of the crops. 28,000 printed. 



NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 



163 



NAVAL OBSERVATOKY. 

The United States Naval Observatory is one of the leading 
astronomical establishments in the world. It is open every 
day, except Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p. m. The watchman 
will show visitors through the building. Night visits are very 
much restricted in consequence of the interference with the 
astronomical work. The street cars on Pennsylvania av. run 
within 10 min. walk. Alight at 24th st. W., south side. Vis- 
itors afoot may reach the Observatory by following New 
York av. W. of the State, War, and Navy Department to E 
St.. N., thence by the latter to 24th st. W. 

Grounds. — The Observatory occupies a commanding site 
on the N. bank of the Potomac, 96 ft. above tide, and origin- 
ally known as Peters'' Hill, after its proprietor. The beauti- 
ful grounds comprise 19 a. within the walls, and constitute 
Reservation No. 4 on the original plat of the city. 




NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 

There are many interesting historical associations connected with the site. In 1755 
portion of Braddock's army camped here on the march from Alexandria to the fatal 
field on the Monongahela. On the Potomac bank is a rock upon which the troops 
were landed, and known as Braddock's rock. In 1792 it was proposed to erect z. fort 
and barracks on the N. portions of the reservation. It was a favorite project with 
Washington to establish a national university here. The grounds were named Uni- 
versity Square from this fact. In l8i3-'i4 part of the American army encamped on 
the hill, from which fact it was long known as Camp Hill, and advanced to Bladens- 
burg for the defense of the city against the English. 

The Observatory, founded in 1842, is under the direction of 
the Bureau of Navigation, Navy Department. The reserva- 
tion in the centre of which it stands was selected for the pur- 
pose by President Tyler. 

Buildings. — The central building, completed in 1844, is 50 
ft. sq., consisting of a basement and 2 stories, with a crown- 
ing parapet and balustrade, and is surmounted by a dome. 



164 NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 

On the E. and W. are wings, each 26£ ft. long, 21 ft. wide, 
and 18 ft. high. At the end of the former is the residence of 
the superintendent, and the latter, an ob serving-room, 40 ft. 
by 28^ ft., built in 1869. The projection on the S. is 60 ft. 
long, and terminates in the great dome. Visitors are expect- 
ed to register their names in the book opposite the main 
entrance. 

Booms and Instruments! — The numbers refer to the diagram 
of ground plan. 

I. Pier of Equatorial, brick, imbedded 17 ft. in the earth, conical, is iz ft. 
in diameter at the surface line, 7 ft. at top, 28 ft. high, and is capped with a pedestal 
of stone weighing 7% tons. Over the pier is a dome zj ft. in diameter, rising 20 ft. 
above the roof, and provided with a slip. The dome revolves on six Z4-lb. shot. 
This Equatorial, purchased in 1845, was made by Merz and Mahler, Munich, cost 
$6,000. Object-glass, 9.62 in., clear aperture; focal length, 14 ft. 4.5 in. Its work 
is chiefly upon the smaller planets, asteroids, and comets. 

II. Superintendent's Office. — Here is an electro-chronograph, in a marble case, 
invented by Prof. John L. Locke, 1848. It is connected by electric wires with the 
clocks in the Executive Departments, Weather Signal Office, and Western Union 
Telegraph Office. The current is continually passing, the pendulums of all the clocks 
beating together. In the adjacent hall is a superbly-carved black walnut switch-board, 
made by the Western Electric Manufacturing Company, Chicago, and purchased in 
1874. The frame takes no wires, and has 3,000 combinations. Through this the 
clocks, chronographs, and instruments are placed in communication with each othei 
and with the telegraphic system of the world. The old switch-board is opposite. 

III. General Office. IV. Office of Naval Officer in Charge of 
Chronometers. V. Packing- Room. 

VI. Mural Circle and Transit, with clock and chronograph. Mural Cir- 
cle, made by Troughton & Simms, London, 1843 ; erected in 1844. Object-glass, 
4.10 in., clear aperture ; focal length, 5 ft. 3.8 in. ; diameter at graduation, 60.35 in.; 
is divided into every 5 min., and is supplied with reading microscopes. Its use is for 
observing declinations of stars. Transit, made by Ertel & Son, Munich, 1844 ; erect- 
ed the same year. Object-glass 5.33 in., clear aperture ; focal length, 7 ft. 0.4 in. 
Used for observing the right ascension of stars. These were the principal instru- 
ments used by Prof. Yarnell in making his Catalogue 0/10,658 Stars. 

VII. Chkonometer-Room, in which the chronometers of the navy, when not 
in actual use, are kept and rated. The average number here is zoo. They are 
wound and compared with a standard,daily, and a record kept of their variation by 
the naval officer in charge. In the same room is a standard mean-time clock, with 
necessary apparatus, from which at meridian each day exact time is dispatched. The 
naval officer in charge, at 3 min. before noon, connects the clock through the foot 
of the pendulum with electric wires, and at mean noon taps the electric key, simul- 
taneously giving the instant of mean noon to the Western Union Telegraph Com- 
pany's offices, and thence all over the U. S. The ball over the Observatory is 
dropped at tne same moment. 

VIII. Library. — In 1844 this consisted of 200 vols, of astronomical works, do- 
nated by the Greenwich, Paris, Berlin, and Vienna Observatories. It now com- 
prises 6,000 vols., some very rare, dating in 1482, relating to astronomy, meteorolo- 
gy, and kindred sciences, and is the most complete of the kind on the western hemi- 
sphere. 

IX. Siderial Clock, made by Kessels, of Altona, Germany, is used as the 
standard clock of the Observatory. 

X. Transit Circle, made by Pistor & Martins, Berlin, was first mounted in 
the present Library in 1865. Object-glass, 8.52 in., clear aperture; focal length, 12 
ft. 1 in.; outer diameter of its circles, 45.30 in., and at the graduation, 43.40 in. 
Both circles are divided to every z min., and are fitted with reading microscopes. 
The collimators, for adjusting the instrument, have a focal length of z ft. II in. 
Use : observation of the positions ot the sun, moon, and planets. In the same room 
is a chronograph, made by Alvan Clark & Sons, from designs by Prof. Wm. Hark- 
■ e»». It records by electric wires the times at which observations are made. 



NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 



105 



XI. Prime Vertical Transit, made by Pistor & Martins, Berlin, was erect- 
ed in 1844. Object-glass, 4.86 in., clear aperture j focal length, 6 ft. 5 in. Is used 
tnly for declinations. 

XII. Machine Shop. XIII. Room of Officer in Charge of thh Great 
Equatorial. XIV. Sleeping Apartment of Officer in Charge of the 
Great Equatorial. 



XV. Great Equatorial, 
mounted in 1873, made by Al- 
van Clark & Sons, Cambridge- 
port, Mass. Object-glass, 26 
in., clear aperture; focal 
length, 32% ft., cost $47,000. 
The rough lump of glass was 
cast by Chance & Co., Birm- 
ingham, England. The in- 
strument rests upon a double 
pier of masonry, imbedded 17 
ft. in the earth. The pier 
above the floor is of brick, 
arched, and has a cap consist- 
ing of a solid block of red sand- 
stone, 8 ft. long by 2 ft. wide 
and high. On top of this is an 
iron support weighing 1,100 
lbs., to receive the axis upon 
which the telescope is mount- 
ed. The instrument with its 
base weighs 6 tons. The in- 




strument is equatorially 
mounted, the general plan 
being that devised by Fraun- 
hofer, modified by Messrs. 
Clark and Prof. S. Newcomb, 
and is run by a reaction water 
wheel. It is fitted with mi- 
chrometers, spectroscopes, &C. 
The tube is of sheet steel, 
rolled in Pittsburgh. There 
is also a chronograph con- 
nected with ffhe instrument. 
The great equatorial is plac- 
ed in an iron dome 41 ft. in 
diameter and 40 ft. in height, 
erected at a cost of $14,000 
The superstructure rests on 
a stone foundation. The roof 
is supplied with a slip, re- 
volves on conical wheels, 
and is easily moved horizont- 
ally in either direction by 



NAVAL OBSERVATORY, GROUND PLAN. 

means of suitable gearing. The instrument is the largest refractor in the world. 
The next in size is in the private observatory of R. S. Newall, Gateshead, England, 
and has 2$ in. of clear aperture. 
XVI. Residence of the Superintendent. 

The rooms on the second floor of the main building are used 
by officers in charge of the various instruments and their 
assistants. The view from the platform around the dome is 
very fine. To the top of the staff over the dome a black can- 
vass ball, 1\ ft. in diameter, is hoisted daily a few minutes 
before noon, and by means of a steel spring, governed by a 
magnet and operated from the chronometer-room, is dropped 
on the instant of mean noon. 



16G ARMY MEDICAL MUSEUM. 

Superintendents of the Depot of Charts and Instruments. — 1830, Lieut. L. 
Goldsborough ; 1833, Lieut. Charles Wilkes ; 1836, Lieut. Hitchcock ; 1838, Li 
J. M. Gilliss. Of the Naval Observatory. — 1844, Commander M. F. Maury; T -, 
Capt. J. M. Gilliss; 1865, Rear Admiral C. H. Davis; 1867, Rear Admiral J '/. 
Sands ; 1874, Rear Admiral C. H. Davis. 

History. — The first action of Congress towards the establishment of an ob- va- 
tory was in 1821, in the passage of a joint resolution to ascertain the longitude the 
Capital from Greenwich, first proposed by Wm. Lambert, of Va., in 1810. I (830 
a bureau, for the care of the instruments and charts o*" the navy, was creat . A 
small 30-in. transit was erected at the same time. A series of observations wi car- 
ried on in connection with the Wilkes Exploring Expedition, i838-'42. In S42 a 
" permanent depot'" was established. In 1850 the meridian of the Obserz ory at 
Washington was adopted as the American meridian for astronomical and bat of 
Greenwich for all nautical purposes. Long, of Observatory, 77 3' 5''.? W. of 
Greenwich; lat., 38 53' 38".8 N. 



ARMY MEDICAL MUSEUM. 

The Army Medical Museum (open every day, except S„ day, 
from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) stands on the E. side of 10th s . W., 
about midway between E and F sts. N. It is a plain brick 
structure, painted dark brown, 3 stories high, 71 ft. front, and 
109 ft. deep. The building was originally a church, and then 
a theatre, known as Ford's Theatre, and was the scene of the 
tragedy of April 14, 1865 — the assassination of President 
Lincoln. The building was immediately closed by the Gov- 
ernment, and in April, 1866, Congress purchased it for $100,- 
000, for the purpose to which it is now applied. The interior 
was taiceii out, remodeled, and madt, nre-proof, under direc- 
tion of Surgeon General Barnes. There is now no trace of 
the exact scene of the assassination. Its location was on the 
r., about the centre of what is now the second floor. The as- 
sassin took his last drink in the restaurant, which occupied 
the first floor of the S. wing, now the Chemical Laboratory. 
The President was conveyed to the house No. 516, opposite, 
and died iii the back room of the first floor. 

On the N. side, in the rear of the building, is a small wing, 
occupied by the Museum workshops, and in front, on the S. 
side, is another wing, used by the Chemical Laboratory and 
the officers on duty. The main entrance is in the S. portion 
of the front, and the Museum is in the third story, at the top 
of the stairway. The first floor is occupied by the record 
and pension division of the Surgeon General's Office, contain- 
ing the papers belonging to the military hospitals and monthly 
sick reports of the army during the rebellion, 1861-65, and 
are stilT received from the various posts of the regular army. 
The hospital records number over 16,000 vols. The payment 
of pensions is based upon information received from these rec- 
ords. The alphabetical registers contain about 300,000 names 



ARMY MEDICAL MUSEUM. 167 

of the 4ead of the army. The Chemical Laboratory in the S. 
wing is charged with the examination of alleged adulterations 
of medicines and hospital supplies, and other investigations 
of a similar nature which come before the Surgeon General. 
The second floor contains the surgical records. In the S. wing, 
on this floor, are the offices of the Surgeon General and sur- 
geon in charge. Here are portraits of Surgeon General Lovel, 
John Hunter, (a copy from Sir Joshua Reynolds,) philosophi- 
cal writer on surgery, Dr. Morton, author of Crania Ameri- 
cana, and Dr. Physic, an original by Rembrandt Peale. 

Museum.— The Museum on the third floor is well lighted 
in front and rear and by a large central skylight, which also 
lights the floors below through oblong openings. The attend- 
ant in the room will answer questions and point out objects 
of special interest. 

The specimens, arranged in cases and otherwise, number 
16,000, and are divided into six sections, viz: I. Surgical 
Section, embracing specimens of the effects of missiles of 
every variety on all parts of the body, extremely interest- 
ing ; the stages of repair ; morbid conditions, calculi, tumors, 
&c. ; plaster casts representing mutilations resulting from 
injuries and surgical operations; examples of missiles ex- 
tracted from wounds ; preparations exhibiting the effects of 
injuries peculiar to Indian hostilities. In this section are 
the bones of the amputated portions of the legs of eight 
generals, and a portion of the vertebrae of the neck of Booth, 
the assassin. II. Medical Section, consisting of specimens 
illustrating the morbid conditions of the internal organs in 
fever, chronic dysentery, and other camp diseases ; the mor- 
bid anatomy of the diseases of civil life; and pathological 
pieces relating to the diseases of women and children, mal- 
formations, and monstrosities. III. Microscopical Section, 
including thin sections of diseased tissues or organs, suitably 
mounted for microscopical study, and a variety of prepara- 
tions exhibiting the minute anatomy of normal structures. 
An interesting branch of this section is the success attained 
in photo-micography, the process by which the most delicate 
microscopical preparations can be photographed to a magni- 
fying power of 4,500 diameters. IV. Anatomical Section, 
embracing skeletons, separated crania, and other prepara- 
tions of the anatomy of the human frame. The collection of 
human crania, with a view to ethnological study, and espe- 
cially relating to the aboriginal race of the United States, is 
very complete, numbering about 1,000 specimens. V. Section 
of Comparative Anatomy, embracing over 1,000 specimens of 
skeletons of buffalo, deer, bear, and other American mammals, 



168 GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 

with birds, reptiles, and fishes. VI. Miscellaneous Section, 
including models of hospitals, barracks, ambulances, and 
medicine wagons, a collection of surgical instruments, arti- 
ficial limbs, and other articles of interest. The object of the 
Museum is not to gratify public curiosity, but was founded 
and is carried on in the interests of science. It is the finest 
collection of the kind in the world, and is resorted to by sur- 
gical and medical students and writers from all parts of the 
United States and abroad. The original design of the Museum 
was the collection of specimens illustrative of military surgery 
and camp diseases for the education of medical men for mili- 
tary service. The Medical and Surgical History of the War 
was compiled from the records of the museum. 



GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 

The Government Printing Office, and Bindery (open every 
day, except Sunday, from 8 a. m. to 5. p. m.) occupies an 
L-shaped brick building, on the SW. corner of H and North 
Capitol sts. The Office may be reached by the Columbia 
Horse Railway. Visitors should alight and enter by the door 
nearest N. Capitol st. There is also a public entrance on the 
latter st. It will be necessary for strangers to state to the 
watchman at either door that they desire to visit the build- 
ing. The building measures 300 ft. on II St., and 175 ft. on 
N. Capitol st., and is GO ft. deep and four stories high. The 
building, without the addition of an extension of 60 ft. on the 
W. end, and an L of 113 ft. on the E. end, made in 1871, was 
purchased in 1860 by the Superintendent of Public Printing, 
an office then created under authority of an act of Congress. 
It had previousl3 r belonged to Cornelius Wendell, and was 
then used as a printing office, under the contract system. 
The object of the purchuse was the execution of the printing 
and binding authorized by the Senate and House of Repre- 
sentatives, the Executive and Judicial Departments, and the 
Court of Claims. Connected with the main building are a 
paper warehouse, machine shops, boiler and coal houses, 
wagon shed and stable. 

On the first floor are the press, wetting, drying, and engine 
rooms. The presses include a variety of patterns, and are 
adapted to every species of work. There are 52 in all, from 
the immense Bullock press to the small Gordon. On the 
second floor are the composing-room, with 300 stands, the 



GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 169 

proof-reading rooms, the electro and stereotype foundery, and 
the offices of the Congressional Printer. On the third floor 
is the bindery, including embossing, numbering-, paging, rul- 
ing, stamping, stitching, marbling, and all other branches. 
The process of marbling is particularly interesting. On the 
fourth floor are the stitching and folding rooms and the Con- 
gressional Record office, with a capacity of working 100 men. 
The Record, containing the proceedings and debates of Con- 
gress, now printed at the Public Printing Office, is issued 
every day at 6 A. M. during the session of Congress. All 
bills and reports, without regard to length, are delivered in 
print to Congress the day following their presentation. 

The Public Printing Office is the largest establishment of 
the kind in the world. The capacity for work is practically 
without limit. Upwards of 120,000 pages of documentary 
composition and 1,000,000 volumes of that class of work have 
been turned out in a single year. The finest works printed 
here are the Medical and Surgical History of the War ; the 
reports of the Paris Exposition ; Astronomical Observations 
of the Naval Observatory ; the Census of 1870 ; the Case of 
the United States before. the Tribunal of Arbitration at Gen- 
eva, in English, French, and Portuguese ; prof essional papers 
of the Bureau of Engineers, War Department ; the Darien 
and Tehuantepec Ship-canal Expeditions; Hayden's Final 
Surveys ; Clarence King's Surveys of the 40th Parallel ; the 
Coast Survey Reports ; and general Catalogues of the Libra- 
ries of the United States and the Surgeon General's Office. 



In 1852 the old contract system of public printing was 
abolished, and the office of Superintendent of Public Print- 
ing for each House of Congress was created. The work, 
though still executed by contract, was then done under the 
direction of those officers. In 1860 Congress took the public 
printing in their own hands, and in 1867 the office of Super- 
intendent of Public Printing was abolished, and instead the 
Senate of the United States was authorized to elect some 
competent person, a practical printer, to take charge of the 
Government Printing Office. 



170 winder's building. 



WINDER'S BUILDING. 

This structure (open every day, except Sunday, from a. 
m. toSp.m.) is situated on the NW. corner of F and 17th sts., 
opposite the Navy Department. It was originally erected 
for a hotel, and was purchased by the Government for the 
accommodation of public offices. The first floor is occupied 
principally by the Chief Engineer of the Army. The last 
room, No. 2, on the corridor leading to the r. after entering 
is the Battle Record Room, in which the reports of the battles 
of the late war are filed and indexed. On the r. of the S. 
corridor, No. 13, is a, file room for the papers belonging to the 
Adjutant General's Office. The second floor, E. front, is 
devoted to the Judge Advocate General of the Army, and the 
S. to the Ordnance Office. The floors above are assigned to 
the Second Auditor of the Treasury Department. 

Ordnance Museum. — (Open every day, except Sunday, from 
9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) — This interesting military collection is on 
the second floor, and may be reached by ascending the steps 
opposite the main door, and keeping the corridors to the r., 
passing through the door marked " Ordnance Office " to door 
No. 49 on the r. at the farther end of the corridor; crossing 
this room and the connecting hall we enter the Museum, 
which occupies a detached building. , The collection occupies 
two fine halls. The most conspicuous object on entering are 
the captured Confederate flags. They are all more or less 
associated with the battles of the late civil strife. The other 
objects of interest are United States Army infantry and cav- 
alry uniforms and accoutrements complete; section of an 
oak, which stood inside the Confederate entrenchments near 
Spottsylvania C. H., and was cut down by musket balls in 
the attempt to recapture the works carried by 2d Corps A. 
P., May 12, 1864; Jefferson Davis' rifle, a French piece, 
taken at the time of his capture in 1865 ; artillery, cavalry, 
and infantry accoutrements used in the U. S. Army from the 
earliest date; cheveaux-de-frise from front of Petersburg, 
Va. ; models and drawings of arsenals ; fuses for exploding 
shells and cannon ; shells picked up on the battle-fields ; cart- 
ridge bags for field, siege, and sea-coast artillery, the largest 
containing 100 lbs. ; projectiles of various sizes, both spherical 
and rifled, the largest being 20 m. in diameter, and weighing 
1,000 lbs.; portable cavalry forge and tools complete; Gat- 
ling guns of various sizes, including the "Camel" gun 
mounted on tripod, and of which large numbers are in use 
in Egypt ; a Billinghurst and Requia battery ; a Union or 



CITY HALL. 



171 



"coffee-mill" gun ; a steel Whitworth gun, one of a battery 
from loyal Americans in Europe to the United States in 1861 ; 
the carriage of a 4 lb. cannon, formerly the property of the 
city of Vicksburg, fired at a passing steamer several days 
before any guns were fired at United States forts or troops 
at Charleston or Pensacola — the gun is at West Point ; breech 
loaders captured at Richmond ; confederate projectiles ; 
models complete, showing mountings of guns in casemate 
and barbette, also mortars; a gun mounted on a saddle; 
models of field and siege artillery, caissons, forges, and bat- 
tery wagons used in the U. S. Army ; life-size models of 
horse artillery equipments, ordnance rockets, and fireworks. 
On the second floor is the Museum of small arms, in which 
can be traced then- history from the beginning, and practically 
illustrating the stages of advancement, embracing breech and 
muzzle-loaders, muskets, rifles, and carbines, armor 1610, 
cuirass, and helmet, and other relics from the battle-field of 
Sedan, 1870, foreign arms and cavalry equipments, Indian 
war clubs, and ancient weapons and wall pieces, Japanese 
two-handed sword, worn by Kondo, a provincial officer, visit- 
ing the U. S. in 1871, presented by Arinori Mori, Charge 
d' Affairs, and captured Confederate arms. 




DISTRICT COURT-HOUSE, (FORMERLY CITT HALL.) 

DISTRICT COURT HOUSE. 

The City Hall, until 1871, occupied jointly by the munici- 
pal government of Washington and the United States Courts 



172 ARSENAL. 

for the District of Columbia, in 1873, by purchase, became the 
sole property of the United States, and is now entirely devoted 
to judicial purposes. The structure stands on the S. line of 
Judiciary Square, fronting 4£ st. W., and at the intersection 
of Louisiana and Indiana avs. In the open space in front is 
a marble column surmounted by a statue of Lincoln by Lot 
Flannery, a self-taught sculptor. It was erected out of the 
contributions of a number of patriotic citizens. The building 
was commenced in 1820, from plans by George Hadfield, the 
architect of the Capitol. The E. wing was finished in 1826, 
and the W. in 1849. It is two stories, 47 ft. high, and con- 
sists of a recessed centre 150 ft. long, with two projecting 
wings, each 50 ft. front and 166 ft. deep. The entire frontage 
is 250 ft. The structure is of brick stuccoed painted white. 
In the centre of the main building, and in each wing, are re- 
cessed porticos, formed of Doric columns. Between the wings 
is a paved space. 



THE UNITED STATES BARRACKS. 

The U. S. Barracks, formerly the U. S. Arsenal, changed 
1881 (open from sunrise to sunset), occupies a tract of 69 a., 12 
ft. above high water, at the extreme S. point of the city, ac- 
cessible by the 7th and 9th st. lines of Horse Railways; the ter- 
mini of which are near the gate, at the foot of 4£ st. W. 
The tract, Reservation No. 5 (page 22) originally comprised 
28£ a., at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia riv- 
ers, to the mouth of James Creek, and northward to T st. S. 
In 1857 it was extended to its present area by the purchase 
of the adjoining land on the N., between the Potomac and 
the James Creek Canal to P st. S., and where stood the U. S. 
Penitentiary 1826-69. The grounds are beautifully laid out 
and entered through massive gates swung on heavy guns. 
The garrison consists of Foot and Flying Batteries, drill 
every morning. Here may be seen the various styles of 
guns and mortars used in active service. The commanding 
officer's quarters are in the large building on the r., entering. 
The officers' quarters are in the quadrangle at the foot of the 
Peninsula, and for men and stables on the left. Total 
quarters for 5 batteries. The principal magazines are on the 
Anacostia. 



ARSENAL. 



173 



The body of Booth, the assassin of President Lincoln, was landed at the 
small wharf at theS. W. end of the peninsula. It was, with the bodies of the 
other conspirators, buried in one of the lower cells of the United States Peni- 
tentiary, erecteo. on the north end of the arsenal grounds, 1826-29. In 1865 the 
body of IVirz, the Anderson rebel prison-keeper, executed at tue old Capitol 
1865, was also buried here. When the Penitentiary was torn down. 1369, 
these bodies were removed, Wirz to Mt. Olivet Cemetery, D. C, and Booth 
co Baltimore. The grounds afford a delightful stroll or drive, with the broad 
Potomac on the W. and the James Creek Canal on the E. 

Objects of Inter- 
est. — In front of the old 
quarters are a number of 
captured cannon and 
mortars, among which 
are two Blakely guns, 
one inscribed, " Pre- 
sented to the sovereign 
State of South Carolina, 
by one of her citizens re- 
siding abroad, in com- 
memoration of the 20 
of December, i860 ;" a 
brass gun with a ball in 
the muzzle, shot there in 
the battle of Gettysburg; 
guns surrendered by the 
British by the Conven- 
tion of Saratoga, Oct. 
17, 1777; French guns 
taken at the battle of 
Niagara, July 25, 1814 ; 
a 64 pounder, captured 
at Vera Cruz, March 29, 
1847 > anc ^ guns cap- 
tured from Cornwallis 
at Yorktown Oct. 19, 
1 78 1 : also a number of 
small guns and mortars, 
some of date 1756. 

History. — In 1803 a 
military station was es- 
tablished on the Arsenal 
grounds. In 1807 shops 
were erected. In 1812 
powder was stored here. 
In 1813 it became a reg- 
ular depot of supplies. 
In 18 14 it was destroyed 
by the British. A num- 
ber of the latter were 
killed by the explosion of 
powder secreted in a w ell 
near the quarters. In 
1815 it was rebuilt under 
Col. George Bom ford. 
In 1816 buildings were t 

erected by the Ordnance Department. During the rebellion, i86i-'6s, it was the 
depot of ordnance supplies for the Army of the Potomac. Large quantities of 
ammunition and gun carriages were made here. In 1864 twenty-one girls 
were killed in an explosion of one of the laboratories. Since the war the 
grounds have been beautified. 




174 NAVY -YARD. 



NAVY-YARD. 



The Navy-Yard {open every day, except Sunday, from 7 a. 
m. to sunset,) is situated on the Anacostia, f m. SE. of the 
Capitol, 8th st. E. terminating at the entrance. It may be 
reached from the W. portions of the city in the red cars of 
the Pennsylvania av. st. railway. The officer of the marine 
guard at the gate will pass visitors. The present grounds 
comprise about 27 a., and are entered by a stone gateway, hi 
Doric style, over which are small cannon-and-ball embellish- 
ments, and in the centre a well-executed eagle, resting on an 
anchor. Inside, on the r., is the guard-room, and opposite 
the officers' room. An avenue runs S. from the entrance to 
the building occupied by the Commandant's and other offices 
of the yard. The Executive officer's room is on the second 
floor, and from whom a permit may be obtained, which will 
admit the bearer to any part of the yard, in the workshops, 
and on board any monitors in the stream. 

Immediately within the entrance, on either side of the 
avenue, are two large guns, captured in 1S04, by Commodore 
Decatur from two Tripolitan gunboats. The buildings on 
the 1. and r. are the officers' quarters : those of the Com- 
mandant being on the 1. On the 1. of the main avenue are 
the storehouses, copper-works, &c. ; and on the r. the foundry, 
machine, and other shops. S. of the Commandant's building 
are a number of cannon and projectiles : among the former 
two of 1686 and 1767 date, captured at Norfolk, Va., 1862; 
several Austrian and French guns, and two Austrian howit- 
zers, rifled, captured on the steamer Columbia in 1862. 

On the river bank are two ship-houses E. and W. Near 
the E . is the boat-house, from which a boat may be taken to 
the monitors, if any, in the stream. More to the W. lies the 
receiving-ship, the W. ship-house, and a water batteiy. The 
large building crowning the hill on the opposite side of the 
river is the National Asylum for the Insane. The view down 
the river is very fine. In the W. part of the yard is the Ord- 
nance-shop and Laboratory. The avenue leading back to- 
wards the main entrance passes near the Museum, (open from 
9 a. m. to 4 p. m.) On either side of the door are a number of 
projectiles of the largest size. Among these a 20-in. shot, 
weighing 1,048 lbs. The gun is on the Rip-raps, Hampton 
Roads. Here may be seen a number of relics and other ob- 
jects of interest : a/nong which, on the first floor, are a Span- 
ish gun, cast about 1490, brought to America by Cortez, and 
used in the conquest of Mexico ; a Spanish gun captured by 
Commodore Stockton in California in 1847 ; an old-style re- 



NAVY -YARD. 



175 




NAVY- YARD. 

peater ; a small mortar, captured from Lord Cornwallis ; a 
section of the sternpost of the Kearsarge, showing a shell, 
which did not explode, fired into it by the Alabama ; confed- 
erate torpedoes, taken out of southern harbors; submarine 
rockets; models of projectiles, and a very interesting col- 
lection of those which had been fired. On the second floor 
are principally small arms ; models of cannon ; a model of the 
ordnance dock, Brooklyn ; brass swivels, one very old, said 
to have belonged to Cortez ; a telescope rifle ; two blunder- 
busses, and cases of rifles and pistols. The walls and ceil- 
ings are artistically decorated with pikes, cutlasses, sabres, 
and pistols. 

History.— On Oct. 30, 1799, the selection of a site for the 
Navy- Yard was brought to the attention of the commission- 
ers, and led to considerable correspondence with Naval Agent 
William Marbury. The ground best suiced for that purpose 
lay on the Anacostia, a short distance above its confluence 
with the Potomac, on land owned by Messrs. Carroll and 
Prout. On Dec. 3, 1799, the Secretary of the Navy gave 
orders to lay the, ground out. The yard, however, was not 
formally established till the passage of the act of March, 1804. 
In those early days it was unrivalled. Such famous vessels 
as the Wasp, Argus, the brig Viper, the Essex, the schoon- 
ers Shark and Grampus, the sloop of war St. Louis, 24 guns, 
and frigates Columbia, Potomac, and Brandywine, 44 guns 
each, were built here. Li 1837 it was proposed to establish a 



176 MARINE BARRACKS. 

naval school at the yard. Of late years the yard has lost its 
prominence for naval construction, owing to the greater fa- 
cilities presented by more recently-established stations, and 
the filling up of the channel. In 1816 a ship of the line could 
anchor here. The yard is now one of the most important for 
the manufacture of naval supplies. 



MARINE BARRACKS. 

A short distance N. of the Navy- Yard gate, on the E. side 
of 8th st. E., between G and I sts. S., are the Marine Barracks. 
The Pennsylvania av. cars {red) for the Navy- Yard pass the 
iron gate, which is the general entrance. Visitors are admit- 
ted from 9 a. m. till sundown, but can be passed before that 
time by the officer of the day. The barracks have a frontage 
of 700 feet. The centre building, used for officers' quarters, 
is two stories high, and the wings are one story, with accom- 
modations for 200 men. The offices of the general staff are 
opposite, on 9th st. E. On the N. of the square a e the quar- 
ters of the Brigadier General and Commandant of the Marine 
Corps, and opposite, on the S., is the armory and hospital. 
In the former are some interesting Marine Corps flags. One 
bears the inscription " From Tripoli to the Halls of the Mon- 
tezumas" by land and sea; also, a Corean flag captured in 
battle. 

The most interesting occasion for a visit would be at the 
time of general inspection on any Monday, weather permit- 
ting, at 10 a. m., when the Marines and their excellent band 
may be seen in full parade. Every day at 8 a. m. in summer 
and 9 a. m. in winter, there is guard mount, the band per- 
forming. The barracks were burnt by the British in 1814, 
but were immediately rebuilt. Recruits are sent here for in- 
struction before being detailed for service on the vessels of the 
Navy. 

The Marine Corps was organized in 1798 as an adjunct to 
the naval establishment, then placed under an independent 
administration. The corps has participated, with glory to 
its officers and men, in all the brilliant achievements which 
have characterized the operations of the Navy of the United 
States whenever called upon to vindicate the honor of the na- 
tion. On land the corps has borne itself nobly; and against 
greatly superior numbers and overcoming grave obstacles, 
has invariably returned with fresh laurels. In the Tripolitan 
and Mexican wars, in their participation in the attack on Fort 



MAGAZINES. 177 

Fisher, in their desperate conflict on the coast of Corea against 
overwhelming numbers of the barbarous enemy, and in re- 
peated retaliatory landings on the shores of Asiatic countries 
and islands of the Pacific, their discipline and bravery have 
won for them a bright page in the nation's history. The 
headquarters of the corps are appropriately at the National 
Capital, being established at the Marine Barracks. The com- 
mandant or superior officer holds the rank of brigadier gen- 
eral ; there are also 1 colonel, 2 lieutenant colonels. 4 majors, 
20 captains, and an increased number of lieutenants. The 
numerical strength of the corps by law T is 2,500 men. 



MAGAZINES. 



The Army and Navy Magazines, to which there is no ad- 
mittance, occupy about 6 a. in the S. part of reservation No. 
13, or Hospital Square, situated in the extreme E. part of the 
city on the Anacostia. They consist of four brick buildings, 
the two for the Army on the N., and those for the Navy on 
the S., with a capacity of 2,000 bbls. each. The grounds are 
tastefully laid out. A sergeant and private and a small detach- 
ment of marines are on duty. The wharf at the foot of the 
grounds is used exclusively for the discharge or shipment of 
powder. In 1S73 the Bellville farm, of 90 a., on Oxen creek, 
with a frontage on the Potomac nearly opposite Alexandria, 
was purchased for the Naval Magazine, which will be remov- 
ed from its present location. 

The large quantities of powder usually stored in these 
magazines occasions great uneasiness to the inhabitants of 
the adjacent parts of the city. Frequent measures have been 
taken to have the magazines removed. That of the Navy will 
be transferred to its new site as soon as the buildings are 
ready for use. The Army magazines will doubtless speedily 
follow. 



12 



SECTION IV. 
PLACES OF GENERAL INTEREST. 




SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 

HE Smithsonian Institution (open daily, except 

Sunday, from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m.) occupies a fine 

site S. of Pennsylvania av., and may be conveniently 

reached by 10th st. W.. the centre of the N. front 

of the building facing that street. 

Grounds. — The whole area of what are now desig- 
nated the Smithsonian Grounds — that is, from 7th to 12th st. 
and between B sts. N. and S., covers 52£ acres. The Smith- 
sonian grounds proper, and which were set apart for the In- 
stitution in 1846, consist of 20 a., situated in the SW. corner 
of the larger reservation. At first the charge of the Smith- 
sonian grounds proper was under the Institution. About 15 
years ago, however, Congress resumed their supervision. 
They were then thrown into the extensive and beautiful res- 
ervation which now surrounds the Institution building. 

The grounds were designed and partially laid out by the 
distinguished horticulturist and landscape gardener, Andrew 
Jackson Downing, whose death occurred while in the prose- 
cution of his plans. They are arranged with lawns, groves, 
drives, and footways, and are planted with 150 species of 
trees and shrubs, chiefly American. In the E. portion of the 
grounds, N. of the E. wing of the building, is a vase of ex- 
quisite beauty, designed by Calvert Vaux, of Newbnrg, N. 
Y., executed by Kobert Launitz, sculptor, of New York, 
and erected by the American Pomological Society to the 
memory of Downing. The funds were supplied by friends of 
the deceased. The principal design of the monument con- 
sists of a large vase of antique pattern, worked in Italian 
marble, and resting on a pedestal of the same material. The 
vase is 4 ft. high and 3 ft. in diameter at the upper rim. The 
body is ornamented with arabesque. Acanthus leaves sur- 
round the lower part. The handles rest on the heads of satyrs. 
cods of groves and woods, and the pedestal on a carved base 

(178 



SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 



179 



surrounded with a cornice. On each side is a deep panel, 
relieved by carved mouldings. In each is an appropriate in- 
scription. That facing the X. reads, "This vase was erected 
by his friends in memory of Andrew Jackson Downing, who 
died July 28, 1852, aged thirty-seven years. He was born 
and lived and died on the Hudson river." On the base of 
the pedestal are the words, "This memorial was erected 
under a resolution passed at Philadelphia, in September, 
1852, by the American Pomological Society, of which Mr. 
Downing was one of the original founders. Marshall P. 
Wilder, President." The whole monument, with the granite 
plinth, is 9J ft. high, and cost $1,600. 

Description. — The style of architecture of the Smithsonian 
Building, designed by James Kenwick, Jr., of N". Y., is Nor- 
man, and chronologicall} 7 belongs to the end of the 12th cen- 
tury, representing the rounded at the time of merging into the 
Gothic. It is the first unecclesiastical structure o" that period 
ever built in the United States. The building compares favor- 




SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 



ably with the best examples of the styles, variously called the 
Norman, the Lombard, the Romanesque, and the Byzantine. 
The semi-circular arch still is used throughout in doors, win- 
dows, and other openings. The windows are without elabo- 
rately traceried heads. The weather mouldings consist of 
corbel courses with bold projections. It has towers of various 



180 SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 

sizes and shapes. The main entrance from the N"., shelterea 
by a carriage porch, is between two towers of beautifully 
symmetrical proportions and unequal height. The general 
design consists of a main centre building, two stories high and 
two wings of a single story, connected by intervening ranges, 
each having a cloister on the N. with open stone screen. In 
the centre of the N. side of the main building are two towers, 
the higher one 145 ft. On the S. is a single massive tower 37 
ft. square, including the buttress, and 91 ft. high. On the 
NE. corner is a double campanile 17 ft. square and 117 ft. to 
the top of its finial. At the SW. corner is an octagonal tower 
finished with open work in the upper portions. At the SW. 
and NW. corners are two smaller towers. There are 9 tow- 
ers in all, including the small ones at each wing. 

The extreme length of the building from E . to W., includ- 
ing the porch of the E. wing, is 447 ft. The breadth of the 
centre of the main building and towers, including carriage 
porch, is 160 ft. The E. wing is 82 by 52 ft., and 42$ ft. hi^h 
to the top of its battlement. The W. wing, inclusive of its 
projecting apsis, is 84 by 40 ft., and 38 ft. high. Each con- 
necting range, inclusive of cloister, is GO by 49 ft. The main 
building is 205 by 57 ft. and to the top of the corbel courses 
58 ft. high. 

The material used is a variety of freestone found in the new 
red sandstone formation, about 23 m. distant from Washing- 
ton, in the vicinity of the point where Seneca creek empties 
into the Potomac river. It is the same, though brought from 
a different locality, as that used in the construction of Trinity 
church of New York city. The building throughout is con- 
structed in the most durable manner. The foundation walls 
vary from 12 to 8 ft. at the base to 5 ft. at the top. The walls 
of the main building, above the water table, are 2 J ft. for the 
first story, and 2 ft. for the second, exclusive of buttresses, 
corbel courses, and other exterior projections, and exclusive 
of the interior lining of brick. The walls of the wings are 2 
ft. thick. Groined arches are turned under the central, the 
campanile, and octagonal towers, and towers of the W. wing. 
The copings, cornices, battlements, window jambs, mullions, 
sills, and all stone work, is held by iron clamps leaded. The 
face of the building is finished in ashlar, laid in courses 10 to 
15 in. in height, and with an average bed of 9 in. The whole 
of the centre building is fireproof, and the two wings and 
ranges practically so. The roofs are of slate laid on iron. 



1S2 



SMITHS MAN INSTITUTION. 



Secretaries of the Smithsonian Institution. — 1846, Joseph Henry, of 
N. Y.; 1878, Spencer F. Baird, of Pa. 

History. — James Smithson, the founder of the Smithsonian Institution 
was born in London, and took a degree at Oxford in 1786. He was son of 
Hugh, first Duke of Northumberland, and Elizabeth, heiress of Hungerfords 

of Audley, and niece of Charles the 
Proud, Duke of Somerset. Having 
never married, he devoted his life to 
science, and died at Genoa, in 1828 
leaving his money to his nephew 
Henry James Hungerford, for life, 
after which it was to go to the United 
States " to fou?id, at Washington 
under the name of the Smithsontan 
Institution, an establishment for the 
increase and diffusion of knowledge 
among men." By act of Congress, 
July 1, 1836, the government of the 
United States accepted the bequest, 
and, in the same year, Richard Rush, 
of Pa., was designated to prosecute 
the claim. The original fund, #515,- 
169, thus obtained, was placed in the 
Treasury of the United States, and 
invested. By act of Congress, Aug. 
10, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution 
was given organization ; its affairs 
being entrusted to a Board of Regents 
composed of certain high officers of 
the government and a designated 
number of private citizens, who 
elected a secretary charged, under 
tneir direction, with the active management. On May 1, 1847, the corner- 
stone of the building was laid with Masonic ceremonies, in the presence of 
President Polk and Cabinet, and a large gathering of officials and citizens, 
George M. Dallas, of Pa., orator of the day. The building was completed in 
1856, at a cost of $450,000, paid out of the accretions of interest, etc., of the 
original fund, and still leaving a permanent fund of $650,000 in the Treasury 
of the United States, from the income of which the expenses of the Institution 
are paid. The expenses ot the National Museum, under the direction of the 
Institution, are paid by appropriations by Congress. In 1857 the government 
collections in the Patent Office were removed to the Institution building. On 
Jan. 24, 1865, the upper part of the main building and the papers and reports 
of the Institution and personal effects of Smithson, were destroyed by fire. 
In 1866, by act of Congress, the Library of the Institution, comprising a large 
and valuable collection of scientific works and transactions of foreign societies, 
was transferred to the Library of Congress, and works now received tnrough ex- 
changes are immediately sent there. The Institution is now devoted to "the 
-increase and diffusion of Knowledge," the care of the National Museum; and 
conducting exchanges between the government and scientific bodies of the U. S 
and foreign countries. 




JAMES SMITHSON. 



THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. 183 

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM BUILDING. 

This attractive structure, of the modernized Romanesque 
style, open daily, except Sunday, from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m., stands 
50 feet E of the Smithsonian Institution, and may be reached 
within convenient distance by the Pa. ave. street cars, 
changing at 7 st. W, and go S ; or by pedestrians from Pa. 
av., by 10 st. W., also going S. The building was designed 
by Aldolph Cluss and Paul Schulze, of Washington, from 
plans suggested by Prof. Baird, Gen. Sherman and Peter 
Parker, after a careful examination of the most approved 
structures of the kind in the Old and New World. It is 
327 feet square, and covers 2.35 acres, or 102,200 square 
feet. There are 4 entrances : one in the centre of each 
facade between 2 lofty towers 86 feet high, acting as but- 
tresses for i he naves. The approach to the principal 
entrance is from the north by 4 granite steps 37 feet wide, 
with moulded side-blocks, to a richly-tiled platform with 
granite base-blocks, surmounted by two stately candelabra. 
On the inscription-plate on the globe of the nave is 
" NATIONAL MUSEUM, 1879," and crowning it an alle- 
gorical group, by C. Bierbel, of N. Y., semi-heroic, in Ohio 
grey free stone, representing Columbia as the protectress 
of Science and Industry. 

The four symmetrical exterior walls, t.-j feet high, are broken by projections 
in the centre and angles utilized for rooms. Between these are large arched 
windows set with ornamented glass. The pavilions at the corners relieve the 
effect of low walls. In the rear of the curtain walls the clerestory rises to the 
height of the nave roofs, which terminate against the side walls of the dome. 
The dome in the centre at the base is octagonal, surmounted by a i6-sided 
polygon 67 feet in diameter, 77 feet high, and covered by a slate roof and 
lantern crowned by a decorated finial (total height, 108 feetj. In the clerestory 
are large windows. Lofty lanterns, square and oblong, have also been added 
above the naves and square halls, affording light withont flat skylights. 

The building is constructed of brick, 5,250,000 having been used, laid in 
black mortar, with air spaces. In the cornices buff and blue brick add to the 
effect. The base course is of granite and mam entrance, window sills, in- 
scription plates, coping, etc., of grey Ohio free-stone. The 37 roofs are con- 
structed of iron truss and girders and slated, the blue from Ore Banks, Virginia, 
and red and green from Vermont, the total 60,000 plates. The genera I features 
of the interior are a central rotunda with 4 naves 65 ft. wide, 117 ft. long, 
and 42 ft. high, radiating from it and forming a Greek cross, over the centre of 
which the dome rises. In the exterior angles of the cross are halls 65 ft. 
square, and the same height as the naves, the whole constituting 17 large ex- 
hibition halls, 80,300 ft. space connecting under high archways resting on brick 
piers, with bond stones at intervals of 5 ft., of North River greywacke blue 
stone introduced to give strength and durability. There are in addition on the 
main floor and 2 upper stories, 27,400 sq. ft. divided into 135 rooms for admin- 
istrative functions, offices and working rooms of the museum. The galleries, 
4,000 sq. ft., are on a line with the second floor and for special exhibits. The 
height of rooms on the main floor to the roofs is 56 ft. The roofs are double. 
Those over the halls, between the Greek cross and the exterior walls are 
covered with metal, 32 ft. high, admitting of a clerestory with windows light- 
ing the square hall and naves. The glass, 31,000 sq. ft., was imported from 
Belgium. The sashes are set with double glass. The whole interior is in 



184 SMIT11SOMAN INSTITUTION. 

sand finish washed in tints, with but slight decoration in the arches. The 
main floors are tiled in artistic designs, and the office floors of Florida pine 
resting on concrete. The cellar, 3,200 sq. ft., also contains an underground 
communication with the Smithsonian Institution. The basement, 160 sq. ft., 
contains boiler room and heating apparatus, with low pressure engine fed by 
4 boilers 256 H. P., 2 8 in. mains and 200 steam heaters 13,680 sq. ft. direct 
radiating surface. 

All the heating, water, sewer and gas pipes are conducted about the building 
through subterranean ducts. By the same mains the electric wires are con- 
veyed into the watchman's headquarters. These are of the most elaborate 
character, 300 wires connecting with every window, case and door, promptly 
recording whether being tampered with or open or shut. Also call wires into the 
different halls for convenience of finding the superintendent or attendants. 



fc* MIT H M > N IAN IN fc T IT U TIO N . 



18.") 




SCALE OF FEET 

DIAGRAM (IF THI 



HALLS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. 



The Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution is now- 
engaged in perfecting the arrangement of the large collec- 
tions of the National Museum. These will be so divided as 
to keep in the Smithsonian building all objects of purely- 
natural history, and on the second floor archaeology, the 
latter including antiquities of the Stone Age. 



lbn 



SMITHSONIAN INSTIi'lITlON. 



The Collection. — In the new National Museum Building, 
one- fourth of the collection will consist of minerals, rocks, 
ores, building stone, combustibles and clays, and the 
economic minerals generally ; the foods of the world ; 
medicines chemically produced ; aniline dyes, petroleum 
and coal tar; fabrics of silk, wool and cotton; collections 
in general ethnology; illustrations of the industries of the 
animal kingdom; specimens of timber, showing the eco- 
nomic properties, and illustratious in fisheries and fish 
culture. 

The collections in the new building will be essentially 
industrial and technical, showing everything derived from 
the animal, vegetable, and mineral kingdoms useful to 
man. 



CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART. 



180 




CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART. 

The Gallery is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 
admission 25 c. ; Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, free; 
hours, 10 a. m. to 4 p. m. from October to May. and 9. a. m. 
to 4.jo . m. from May. to October. The building stands on the 
NTS. corner of Pennsylvania av. and 17th st., and was com- 
menced in 1859. From 1861 to 1869 it was occupied by the 
Quartermaster General of the United Stales Army. 

It is in the renaissance style, and has a frontage of 106 ft., on 
Pennsylvania av., and 124J ft. on 17th st. The exterior is 
constructed of brick, with facings, trimmings, and ornaments 
of Belleville freestone. The front on Pennsylvania av. is 
divided into a central pavilion, with a curtain on either side, 
and flanked by two other pavilions, one on either corner, 
and divided into two stories. The central pavilion has ver- 
miculated quoins in the corner, and these inclose the grand 
entrance cloor with a carved jamb and arch, overtopped with 
fierce tigers' heads, in relievo. The anticom of the first story 
is simple in design and detail, and at the same time corre- 
sponds with the massiveness of the quoins at the corners of 
the building. 

The second story of the central pavilion consists of an 
arched recess. The span between the import and the suflit 
of the arch is filled with decorations, and contains the mono- 
gram of the founder, surrounded with carved wreaths and 
enscrollments. Just beneath this there is a palladium win- 



190 CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART. 

(low, with fluted pilasters and columns and capitals, express- 
ing American foliage, exquisitively carved. In the arch are 
two wreaths, encircling various implements of painting and 
sculpture. 

The central pavilion is flanked on either side by two fluted 
columns, with capitals representing the broad leaves and 
fruit of the cornstalk. These support an entablature, on 
which are trophies, representing the Arts, on the frieze of 
the central pavilion ; and on this are inscribed the words, 
"Dedicated to Art." The cornice over this has a pediment, 
in the tympanum of which is a bass relief, representing the 
Genius of Painting, surrounded by figures emblematical of 
the sister arts. 

In the four niches on the avenue front are statues in 
Carrara marble, 7 ft. high, by M. Ezekiel, an American 
sculptor, executed 1879-80 in Rome, representing Phidias 
(sculpture), Raphael (painting), Michael Angelo (archi- 
tecture;, Albert Surer (engraving). The same sculptor is 
now engaged on statues for the seven niches on the 17th 
street side of the building. 



The entire structure is surmounted by an imposing 
mansard roof, slated. The architect was James Renwick, 
N. Y. The cost of building and ground, $250,000. Mr. 
Corcoran's private collection of pictures and statuary con- 
tributed to the gallery, $100,000. The endowment fund, 
$900,000. 

History. — The Corcoran Gallery of Art was the free gift of William W. 
Corcoran to the public, and was deeded to 'the Trustees May 10, 1869, " for 
the encouragement of Painting, Sculpture and the Fine Arts," certain days 
being set apart for artists to copy works, and requiring it to be open to visitors 
two days in the week without charge, and on other days at a reasonable charge 
for the current expenses of keeping the building in order. The institution was 
chartered by Congress May 24, 1870. Mr. Corcoran was born in Georgetown 
in 1798, began life as an auctioneer and commission merchant; in 1837 became 
a banker; in 1840 was associated with George W. Riggs, and in 1854 retired a 
millionaire. 

FIRST FLOOR. 

I. Vestibule. — Casts of ancient Bas Reliefs and Antique Busts in marble. 
The stairxvay leads to the picture galleries. 

Right Corridor. -Busts of Roman and Mythological characters. 11 subjects. 

Left Corridor. — Cast offragment of frieze of Trajan's Forum, the ''Crowned 
Augustus," and other Roman and Greek celebrities. 11 subjects. 

Vestibule of Sculpture Hall. — The Last Days 0/ Napoleon, marble, 
Vincenzo Vela, 1871 ; a replica of that bought by Napoleon III., now at 
Versailles. 

II. Trustees' Room. 

III. Hall of Bronzes. — 61^x19 ft. Bronzes by Antoine Louis Barge, of 
Paris, the largest collection of his works extant ; the Hildesheim Treasures, 
Ceramic Ware, Armor, Japanese and Chinese Ware, etc. This large collec- 
tion is exceedingly interesting. Over 300 articles. 



CORCORAN GALLERF OF ART. 



191 



IV. Hall of Antique Sculpture. — 95^x24^ ft. This large collection of 
casts of the statuary of the classic masters of the chisel, represents the nost 
celebrated specimens of the sculpture of ancient times. 78 subjects. 

V. Side Gallery. — 19' 1" x 18' 7". Contains fine specimens of modern 
sculpture. 

VI. Gallery of the Renaissance. — 43^x19 ft. Contains a fine cast of the 
West Bronze Gate of the Baptistery at Florence, by Lorenzo Ghiberti, 1381- 
1455, and other fine specimens of this age. 24 Subjects. 

VII. Ladies' Retiring Room. 

VIII. Janitor. 




FIRST FLOOR. SECOND FLOOR. 

SECOND FLOOR. 

IX. Hall and Stairway. — Statuary. 

X. Main Picture Gallery.— 96x44^ ft. The collection of paintings 
ranks among the first in the United States. In the centre of the north wall is 
a fine portrait of W. W. Corcoran, the founder of this gallery of art, by Charles 
L. Klliott, 1865. The paintings most valued and admired are the Departure 
and the Return, by Thomas Cole, 1837; the Vestal Tuccia, by Hector 
Leroux, 1874 ; Scenery of the Magdalena River, Granada, by Frederick E. 
Church, 1854 ; Ccesar Dead, by Jean Leon Gerome ; Adoration of 1 he Shep- 
herds, by Raphael Mengs ; Procession of the Sacred Bull, Apis Osiris, by 
Frederick A. Bridgman, 1879; Autumn Afternoon on Lake George, by John 
F. Kensett, 1864; Count Eberhard of Wirtemberg, by Ary Scheffer ; Death 
of Moses, by Alexander Cabanel, 185 1 ; the Farm House, by George More- 
land ; Niagara Falls, by Frederick E. Church, 1857; Mt. Corcoran, by A. 
Bierstadt, 1877 ; Chief Justice Shippen, of Pa., by Gilbert Stuart; the Talk- 
ing Well, by A. Vely, 1873. Over 115 paintings. 

XI. East Gallery. — 43^x19. Containing a fine collection of portraits of 
eminent Americans, by G. P A. Healy, Charles B. King, and others. 

XII. South East Gallery. — Endymion, by W. H. Rinehart, etc., and 
painting of Washington, by Miss Stuart, after Gilbert Stuart, her father. 

XIII. Octagon Room. — The statute of the Greek Slave, by Hiram 
Powers (original), 1846, etc. 

XIV. Southwest Gallery.— The Drought in Egypt, by F. Portaels, 
1873, etc. 

XV. West Gallery. — The Trojan Horse, by Henri Motte ; Great Falls 
of the Potomac, by Wm. MacLeod, etc. Over 68 paintings. 

The Official Catalogue of the Gallery, prepared by William MacLeod, 
curator, gives a complete and instructive account of this fine collection of 
works of art. 



192 WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 



WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 

This long-neglected tribute to the life and character of 
George Washington, occupies a conspicuous site on a small 
plateau near the banks of the Potomac, W. of the Mall, where 
the Tiber formerly emptied into the main stream, and S. of 
the President's House. 

The Monument Grounds, or Park, as originally designated, 
have an area of 45 a. An avenue 69 ft wide connects Execu- 
tive av. with the Drive which, leaving the lake on the 1., fol- 
lows the line of the river bank, winds around the Monument, 
and communicates with the grounds of the Department of 
Agriculture at 14th st. W. A short distance W. of the Mon- 
ument may be seen the stone which marks the centre of the 
District of Columbia. On the hillside to the S. are the Gov- 
ernment Propagating Garden and Nursery. 

The Design. — The design of the Monument, prepared by 
Robert Mills, comprehends an appropriate National testimo- 
nial to the services of the great citizen in whose honor it was 
founded, and at the same time s3 T mbolizes the Republic estab- 
lished by his patriotism and discretion. It embraces the idea 
of a grand circular colonnaded building, 250 ft. in diameter. 



WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 



193 




WASHINGTON MONUMENT. 



and 100 ft. high, from which springs an 
obelisk shaftT70 ft. at the base and 500 
ft. high. 

The vast rotunda, forming the grand 
base of the monument, is surrounded by 
30 columns of massive proportions, be- 
ing 12 ft. in diameter and 45 ft. high, 
elevated upon a lofty base or stylobate 
of 20 ft. elevation and 300 ft. square, 
surmounted by an entablature 20 ft. 
high, and crowned by a massive balus- 
trade 15 ft. in height. 

The terrace outside of the colonnade 
is 25 ft. wide, and the pronaos or walk 
within the colonnade, including the col- 
umn space, 25 ft. The walks inclosing 
the cella, or gallery within, are fretted 
with 30 massive pilasters 10 ft. wide, 45 
ft. high, and 7£ ft. projection, answer- 
ing to the columns in front, surmounted 
by their appropriate architrave. The 
deep recesses formed by the projection 
of the pilasters provide suitable niches for the reception of 
statues. 

A tetrastyle portico, (four columns in front,) in triple rows 
of the same proportions and order with the columns of the 
colonnade, distinguishes the entrance to the monument, and 
serves as a pedestal for the triumphal car and statue of the 
illustrious chief. The steps to this portico are flanked by 
massive blockings, surmounted by appropriate figures and 
trophies. 

Over each column, in the great frieze of the entablatures, 
around the entire building, are sculptured escutcheons, (coats 
of arms of each State in the Union,) surrounded by bronze 
civic wreaths, banded together by festoons of oak leaves, &c, 
all of which spring (eacli way) from the centre of the portico, 
where the coat of arms of the United States is emblazoned. 

The statues surrounding the rotunda outside, under the 
colonnade, are all elevated upon pedestals, and will be those 
of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. 

Ascending the portico outside to the terrace level a lofty 
vomitoria, (doorway,) 30 ft. high, leads into the cella, (rotunda 
gallery,) 50 ft. wide, 500 ft. iii" circumference, and 68 ft. high, 
with a colossal pillar in the centre 70 ft. in diameter, around 
which the gallery sweeps. This pillar forms the foundation 
of the obelisk column above. 
Both sides of the gallery are divided into spaces by pilas- 
13 



194 WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 

ters, elevated on a continued zocle or base 5 ft. high, forming 
an order, with its entablature, 40 ft., crowned by a vaulted 
ceiling 20 ft., divided by radiating archevaults corresponding 
with the relative positions of the opposing pilasters, and in- 
closing deep sunken coffers enriched with paintings. 

The spaces between the pilasters are sunk into niches for 
the reception of the statues of the fathers of the Revolution, 
contemporary with Washington ; over which are large tablets 
to receive the national paintings commemorative of the bat- 
tles and other scenes of that memorable period. Opposite to 
the entrance of this gallery, at the extremity of the great cir- 
cular wall, is the grand niche for the reception of the statue 
of the "•Father of his Country," elevated on its appropriate 
pedestal, and designated as principal in the group by its co- 
lossal proportions. 

This spacious gallery and rotunda, which properly may be 
denominated the ''national Pantheon," is lighted in 4 grand 
divisions from above. 

Entering the centre pier through an arched way, you pass 
into a spacious circular area, and ascend with an easy grade, 
by a railway, to the grand terrace, 75 ft. above the base of the 
monument. This terrace is 700 ft. in circumference, 180 ft. 
wide, inclosed by a colonnade balustrade 15 ft. high, with its 
base and capping. The circuit of this grand terrace is studded 
with small temple-formed structures, constituting the cupolas 
of the lanterns, lighting the pantheon gallery below. 

Through the base of the great circle of the balustrade are 4 
apertures at the 4 cardinal points, leading outside of the bal- 
ustrade upon the top of the main cornice, where a gallery 6 
ft. wide and 750 ft. in circumference encircles the whole, in- 
closed by an ornamental guard, forming the crowning mem- 
ber on the top of the tholus of the main cornice of the grand 
colonnade. Within the thickness of this wall staircases de- 
scend to a lower gallery over the plafond of the pronaos of 
the colonnade, lighted from above. This gallery, which ex- 
tends around the colonnade, is 20 ft. wide, divided into rooms 
for the records of the monument, works of art, or studios for 
artists engaged in the service of the monument. Two other 
ways communicate with this gallery from below. 

In the centre of the grand terrace above described rises the 
lofty obelisk shaft of the monument, 70 ft. square at the base, 
and 500 ft. high, diminishing as it rises to its apex, where it 
is 40 ft. square ; at the foot of this shaft, and on each face, 
project 4 massive zocles 25 ft. high, supporting so many co- 
lossal symbolic tripods of victory 20 ft. high, surmounted by 
facial columns with their symbols of authority. These zocle 
faces are embellished with inscriptions, which are continued 



WASHINGTON NATIONAL MONUMENT. 195 

around the entire base of the shaft, and occupy the surface of 
that part of the shaft between the tripods. On each face of 
the shaft, above this, is sculptured the four leading events in 
Washington's career in basso relievo, and above this the shaft 
is perfectly plain to within 50 ft. of its summit, where a sim- 
ple star is placed, emblematic of the glory which the name of 
Washington has attained. 

To ascend to the summit of the column, the same facilities 
as below are provided within the shaft by an easy-graded gal- 
lery, which may be traversed by a railway terminating in a 
circular observatory 20 ft. in diameter, around which, at the 
top, is a lookout gallery which opens a prospect all around 
the horizon. 

The inner space, or that under the grand gallery or rotun- 
da, may be appropriated to catacombs for the reception of the 
remains of such distinguished men as the nation may honor 
with interment here. 

In the centre of the monument is placed the tomb of Wash- 
ington, to receive his remains, should they be removed thither, 
the descent to which is by a broad flight of steps, lighted by 
the same light which illumines his statue. 

Description. — In its present state the Monument is 174 ft. 
high. It rests on a solid foundation of Potomac gneiss rock, 
81 ft. square at the base, 8 feet below the surface, and 18 ft. 
above, narrowing to 60 ft. square. The base of the obelisk 
is 55 ft. square outside, the walls being 15 ft. thick, and 25 
ft. square inside. The outer surface consists of heavy blocks 
of crystal marble, from Maryland, laid in regular courses of 
about 2 ft ., and backed to the required thickness by gneiss 
rock, as used in the foundation. The inside of the wall is 
perpendicular, while the outer surface gradually recedes. At 
the summit, when completed, the walls will have a thickness 
of but 2 ft. The interior will be provided with an iron stair- 
case. The tablets already built in the interior walls are ar- 
ranged to correspond with the galleries of the proposed 
stairway. 

The Monument, as it now stands, cost $230,000, and was 
six years in building, when the funds ran out. The esti- 
mated cost of the obelisk is $550,000, and pantheon $570,000 
additional. Total, $1,120,000. 

The Monument completed would rank with the loftiest 
works of ancient or modern times, viz : Tower of Babel, 680 
ft. ; Washington Monument completed, 600 ft. ; Cologne 
Cathedral completed, 511 ft, ; Balbec, 500 ft. ; Pyramid of 
Cheops, 480 ft. ; Cathedral, Strasbourg, 474 ft. ; St. Peter's, 
Rome, 458 ft. ; St. Stephen, Vienna, 445 ft. ; Cathedral, Sails- 



196 ARMORY. 

bury, England, 406 ft. ; Cathedral, Antwerp, 405 ft. ; St 
Paul's Cathedral, London, 404 ft. ; Cathedral, Milan, 400 ft. 

The Lapidarium. — In the low wooden building NE. of the 
Monument may be seen the tablets intended for the interior 
of the Monument, to be placed the same as those already 
used. A keeper, who has charge of the keys, resides on the 
ground, and will exhibit the Monument and tablets, 81 in 
number, to visitors. 

Among the American contributions are a block of native 
copper, weighing 2,100 pounds, from Michigan, and 12 bricks 
from the birthplace of Washington. The contributions from 
abroad are from Mount Vesuvius ; Swiss Republic ; a block of 
granite from the Alexandrian Library, Egypt; China; Bre- 
men; Sultan of Turkey; the Temple of Carthage, Africa; 
ancient Egyptian head; Governor and Commune of the 
Islands of Paros and Naxos ; Temple of Esculapius, island 
of Paros ; Greek Government ; and Japan. 

History, — Repeated attempts have been made to erect a 
suitable tribute to the memory of Washington. In 1783 the 
Continental Congress passed a resolution for a National 
Monument. The site for the Monument, near the present 
undertaking, was approved by Washington himself in the 
first plan of the city. In 1800 a bill passed in one House of 
Congress to erect a ''mausoleum of American granite and 
marble in pyramidal form, 100 ft. square at the base, and of 
proportionate height." 

The Washington National Monument Association, the name 
by which the association of distinguished gentlemen who 
projected the monument was known, was organized in 1835. 
The amount collected to 1848 was $230,000. The corner- 
stone was laid July 4, 1848, with Masonic ceremonies, and in 
the presence of 4,000 people. 



ARMORY. 

This building stands on the SE. portion of the Mall, E. of 
the Smithsonian Institution, and fronts on 6th st. W. The 
main entrance is on the E., where a flight of steps leads to 
the drill-rooms on the second and third floors. 

The first floor is paved and arranged for artillery, there 
being three suitable entrances on the N. and S. sides of the 



CHURCHES. 197 

building. Each floor is supported by 12 iron pillars, and is 
provided with gun racks and cases for accoutrements. The 
building is about 103 by 57 ft. In 1853 Congress authorized 
the erection of the building, to be used for the care of ord- 
nance arms, accommodation of volunteers and military of the 
District of Columbia, and for the preservation of military 
trophies of the revolution and other wars. It was finished in 
1857. The building has long been out of use. It is proposed 
to place it in repair for the purposes for which it was origi- 
nally intended. 



CHURCHES. 



The capital possesses many church edifices which, in ar- 
chitectural display and dimensions, have kept pace with the 
growth of the population in numbers and affluence. The 
finest are the Metropolitan Methodist Episcopal, in which are 
also an interesting collection of relics from the Holy Land 
and memorial windows, First Congregational, New-York 
Av. Presbyterian, Epiphany Protestant Episcopal, Foundry 
Methodist, Calvary Baptist, and St. Aloysins, Roman Catho- 
lic. Of the colored churches, the Fifteenth St. Presbyterian 
and Nineteenth St. Baptist are very fine structures. 

A list of leading churches and locations will be found in 
General Information. 

In 1794 the Washington Parish of the Protestant Episco- 
pal Church, to include the cities of Washington and George- 
town, was formed out of St. John's and Sti Paul's Parishes. 
The parish of Christ Church was next created, and the 
church edifice near the Navy Yard was erected about 1800. 
For sixteen years it was the only Episcopal place of worship 
in the city. It was attended by Jefferson and Madison. Ser- 
vices are still held in the same structure. The first Presby- 
terian church services were held in 1793, in the carpenter 
shop used by the joiners at work on the President's House. 
The first Baptist church began worship in 1802, and com- 
menced a building on the corner of I and 19th sts. NW. in 
1803. The first Presbyterian church on F st. was established 
in 1803, services being first held in the hall of the Treasury 
building. In 1826 their new building was completed. St. 
Patrick's, Roman Catholic, was established in 1810. A 
Methodist church was erected near the Navy Yard in 1805, 
but meetings had been held in the city before. St. John's 
Episcopal Church, on the NE. corner of 16th and H sts. 



198 HALLS. 

NW., opposite Lafayette, Square, was erected in 1816, from 
designs by Latrobe, the architect of the Capitol. In 1820 it 
was enlarged, and its original form, a Greek cross, was 
changed to a Latin, and a portico and steeple added. Among 
those who attended services here were Presidents Madison, 
Monroe, and Jackson, and the diplomatic representatives of 
England. The first Unitarian church, on 6th and D sts. 
NW., fronting on Louisiana av., was erected in 1824. 



HALLS. 



There are a number of halls in various parts of the city. 

Masonic Temple is on the NW. corner of F and 9th sts. 
NW., entrance on F st., and was erected by the Masonic Hall 
Association. The corner-stone was laid in 1868. The build- 
ing is of granite and Connecticut and Nova Scotia freestone, 
and cost $200,000. The two exposed faces are tastefully en- 
riched with an appropriate introduction of Masonic symbols. 
The ground-floor is occupied by stores, and the second by a 
public hall, 100 by 48 ft. and 25 ft. high, and retiring rooms. 
The hall has been the scene of some of the most brilliant 
balls and State sociables given at the capital. In the third 
story are the Blue Lodges of Masonry, and in the fourth the 
Royal Arch Chapters and Commanderies. The furniture and 
fittings of the lodges are of superior quality, and are unsur- 
passed in any similar place in the country. A lodge of Ma- 
sons was established in the earliest days of the capital. Prior 
to 1816 there were two which assembled in a building on the 
borders of the river. Under the pavement of the Temple, on 
the S. front, is what was formerly known as the City Sjjring. 

Odd Fellows' Hall, situated on 7th st. W.; bet. D and E 
sts. The earlier building was dedicated in 1846, and erected 
out of funds subscribed by the lodges and members meeting 
in the central part of the city. It was remodeled in 1S73. It 
has a granite base and pressed-brick superstructure, with gal- 
vanized-iron pilasters, jambs, caps, and cornice, and is sur- 
mounted by three domes, that in the centre raised above the 
others. The ground-floor is occupied by stores. The stair- 
way at the main entrance leads to the main hall, on the sec- 
ond floor. The hall is 100 by 40 ft. and 22 ft. high, and fitted 
with a stage of 21 ft. additional, at the E. end. It is princi- 
pally designed for balls, concerts, and lectures. Adjoining 



NEWSPAPER OFFICES. 



199 



are ladies' retiring and gentlemen's cloak-rooms. The third 
floor contains two lodge and one Encampment rooms. The 
Library, on the same flotT, for the use of members of the 
Order and their families, contains a fine collection of hooks. 
The first Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows , 
was established in the District of Columbia in 1827 ; the 
Grand Lodge followed in 1828. 

Lincoln Hall. — This fine structure stands on the NE. cor- 
ner of 9th and D sts. NW. It is built of Seneca brownstorie, 
with iron trimmings, is three stories high, surmounted by a 
Mansard roof. The corner-stone on the SW. bears the in- 
scription, " Y. M. C. A., Nov. xxvn, mdccclxvii. Jeho- 
vah Jibeh." The building was erected by a joint stock 
company chartered by act of Congress in 1867, and was com- 
pleted in 1869, at a cost of $200, 000. On the ground tioor are 
stores. There are two entrances to the upper floors : the main 
one to the Library and Reading Room and Lincoln Hall on 
D st. ; the smaller, on 9th st. 




LINCOLN HALL. 

The Free Reading- Room and Library and the Parlors of the Association 
(open to the public every day except Sunday, from 9 a. m. to 10 p. m.) are on 
the second floor, entrances on both streets. The Library contains about 
■25,000 vols., and the leading secular and religious newspapers of the country. 
The Washington City Library, founded in 1814, has been consolidated with it. 

On the same floor is Lincoln Hall, the finest lecture or concert hall in the 
city, which will seat about 1,300 people. There is also a smaller hall, used for 
religious and social gatherings 01 the Young Men's Christian Association. 
Open to all. 



NEWSPAPER OFFICES. 

The buildings occupied by two of the principal newspapers 
of the city will compare favorably in completeness, if not in 
size, with the best structures of the kind in the country. 




INSTITUTIONS OP LEARNING. 



201 



UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES. 

The public institutions of the national Capital afford un- 
rivaled facilities for professional and collegiate education. 




NATIONAL MEDICAL COLLEGE. 



The National Medical College of the Columbian University. 
on H St., between 13th and 14th sts. N. W., was founded in 
1324. The building was the gift of W, W. Corcoran, 1864, 
cost $40,000, was originally intended for a mechanics' library 
and lectures, contains two lecture rooms, with ante rooms, 
chemical laboratory, and dissecting room. In winter the jan- 
itor will admit visitors. The Dispensary is open daity, except 
Sunday, from 1 to 3 p. m., to the poor. The Law Depart- 
ment Columbian University, established 1826, occupies a 
building on 5th st., between D and E sts. N. W. 

The Medical and Law Departments of Georgetown College, 
respectively established in 1851 and 1870, occupy buildings 
on the corner of 10th and E sts. and F between 9th and 10th 
sts. N. W. In the former is the Central Dispensary, open 
daily, except Sunday, from 1 to 3 p. m. 

The Gonzaga College, on I, between North Capitol and 
1st sts. N. Wi, was founded in 1848 as the Washington Sem- 
inary, and incorporated as a university in 1858. It is con- 
ducted by the fathers of the Society of Jesus, for day scholars 
only. 



202 



SCHOOLS. 



SCHOOLS. 



The Public Schools are among the prominent features of the 
National Capital. Of the buildings are the Franklin, 1st dis- 
trict, cor. 13th and K sts. NW., brick, 148 X 79 ft., basement 
and three stories, erected in 1869, and contains 14 school-rooms. 
This is said to be one of the finest school buildings in the Uni- 
ted States. The Section, 2d district, on I, bat. 2d and 3d sts. 
NW.. brick, 94 X 67 feet, basement and 3 stories, erected in 
1871. The Wallach, 3d district, Pennsylvania av., bet. 7th 
and 8th sts. SE., brick, 99 X 76 ft., basement and three sto- 
ries, erected in 1864. The Jefferson, 4th district, cor. of 6th 
and D sts. SW., brick, 172 X 88 ft, basement and 3 stories, 
with 20 school-rooms, erected in 1872. This is the largest 
school building in the city. It will accommodate 1,200 pupils. 
It is named after Thomas Jefferson, President of the United 
States, a member of the Board oi Trustees of the Public 
Schools of Washington, and president of the same 1805-'08. 
There are also tine grounds. 

In the four school districts there are 43 school buildings, 
owned or rented by the city. The oldest still standing was 
erected in 1800 for a stable, cor. 14th and G sts. NW. 

The Colored Schools are distinct from those attended by 
w r hite children. Prior to 1862 there were no colored public 
schools. Subsequently the schools were under charitable 
associations of the North. ' 

The first building was erected in 1866, on the square now 
occupied by the Sumner building. 

The Sumner Building, on the NE. corner of M and 17th 
sts. NW., was completed in 1872, at a cost of $70,000. It is 
94 ft. long, by 69 ft. wide, and has a basement, 3 stories, and 
a trussed roof. In it are 10 school-rooms. There are 13 
public schools for colored children. 

The annual expenditures are about $318,000, One third 
of this sum is set apart for colored schools. The total school 
population is 17,403. In 1805 the revenues for the support 
of schools were derived from the net proceeds of taxes on 
slaves, tlogs, licenses for carnages and hacks, ordinaries and 
taverns, selling wines and spirits, billiard tables, hawkers 
and pedlers, theatres and other public amusements. In 1806 
there were the E. and W. academies, in 1826 the .schools 
were supported b3' lottery. There is now a school tax. The 
public schools were quartered in rented rooms, prior to the 
dedication of the Wallach building, in 1864. 



ASYLUMS. 



ASYLUMS. 



203 



There are a number of public and private institutions for the 
destitute and sick. 

Naval Hospital (open after 12 noon, during the week, if no 
severe cases) occupies the square between 9th and 10th sts. 
E. and E st. S. and Pennsylvania av. It is accessible from 
the Pennsylvania av. street cars (red) for the Navy Yard, at 
E st. The hospital is under the Bureau of Medicine and 
Surgery of the Navy department, and is open to officers and 
men of the navy and marine corps. The building consists 
of a three-story brick edifice, with mansard, and possesses 
accommodations for 50 patients. There is a reading-room for 
convalescents. A medical director in the navy is in charge. 
Naval discipline is observed. 

National Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan Home, on G st. be- 
tween 17th and 18th sts. NW., (open to visitors every day, 
except Sunday, after 9 a. m.,) was incorporated by Congress 
in 1866, and is supported by Government appropriations. It 
is under the direction of a Board of Lady Managers, and is for 
the support and education of the orphans of the national sol- 
diers or sailors who were killed or died of wounds in the re- 
bellion of 1861-'6o. No applicants are received younger than 
6 years, nor retained after 16 years. 

Columbia Hospital for Women, and Lying-in Asylum, 
incorporated 1866, (visiting days Tuesdays and Fridays, from 
10 a. m. to 4 p. m.,) is on the corner of L and 25th sts. NW. 
The general wards for 50 patients are free to the wives of sol- 
diers, on the permit of the Surgeon General; to women of 
other States, on permit of the Secretary of the Interior; and 
to women of the District, on permit of the Governor. There 
are also private rooms and special wards for 30 patients, for 
the use of which a small compensation is required. Connected 
witli the hospital is an operating room, used for free patients 
only, and open every Saturday at 3.30 p. m., to students of 
medicine in the District. In the W. wing is a dispensary, 
open every day, where the poor receive medicines and treat- 
ment free. The institution is principally supported by the 
National Government. 

Washington Asylum (open every day, except Sunday) is sit- 
uated in the extreme E. portion of the city, on the public 
reservation, No. 17, laid out for the purpose. It may be 
reached in 15 min. along C st. S., leaving the Pennsylvania 



2<M 



ASYLUMS. 



av. street cars (red) at that point. The institution combines 
an asylum for the poor of the District, and a work-house for 
persons convicted in the police courts of minor crimes except 
theft. There are accommodations in the brick buildings for 
180 persons. The first building was erected in 1815, but the 
present one in 1859. On the N. is the District jail, and S. the 
District nurseries, and beyond, the Army and Navy maga 
zines. About £ m. distant, SW., is the "Congressional" 
Cemetery. 

Louise Home, (open to visitors every day, except Sunday, 
after 12 noon*) erected in 1871, was the gift of Mr. Corcoran. 
It is situated on Massachusetts av., bet. 15th and 16th sts. 
W. Its design is for gentlewomen of education and refine- 
ment, but reduced to poverty. It is named after the wife 
and daughter of Mr. Corcoran, both deceased. The build- 
ing, a commodious structure, was erected and furnished un- 
der the personal supervision of Mr. Corcoran, and, with the 
grounds, cost $200,000, and has accommodations for 55 per- 
sons. The institution is under the direction of a board of 
trustees, and lias an endowment of $250,000. The inmates 
are invited by the board of directresses. 

Providence General Hospital, cor. 2d and D sts. SE., (open 
every day, from 10 to 12 a m. and 2 to 4 p. m.) The hospital 
is owned and under the care of the Sisters of Charity. It 
was founded in 18G2, incorporated in 1864, and the present 
building commenced in 1867. It is about 280 ft. long, of 
brick, and will accommodate 250 patients. Towards the 
erection of the building, through Thaddeus Stevens, of Penn., 
Congress appropriated $30,000. There is now an annual ap- 
propriation for 75 non-resident paupers. Indigent persons 
receive permits from the Surgeon General of the Army, but 
any one applying is taken in. The accommodations for pay 
patients are very superior. There is a medical stall' of 12 
physicians; also, a reading-room, library, chapel, and oper- 
ating-room. 

The Washington City Orphan Asylum, on I, bet. 2d and 3d 
sts. NW., was founded in 1815, Dolly P. Madison, wife of the 
President of the United States, being first directress and Mrs. 
Van Ness second. It was incorporated in 182S, and the cor- 
ner-stone of the first building was laid by Mrs. Van Ness on 
Mausoleum square, on H, bet. 9th and 10th sts. NW., the 
burial-ground of the Burns family. The building is now oc- 
cupied by the St. Joseph's Orphan Asylum. It is under 
the direction of the benevolent ladies of the city. The present 



ASYLUMS. 



205 



building is but temporarily occupied, that erected for the per- 
manent use of the Asylum being now rented by the Depart- 
ment of State. 

Children's Hospital, on E, bet. 8th and 9th sts. N"W., (visit- 
ing days Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, from 3 to 5 p. m.,) 
incorporated in 1871. It is under the patronage of benevo- 
lent ladies and gentlemen, of the city, and has for its object 
the free provision of surgical and medical treatment for the 
helpless children of the District between the ages of 15 mos. 
and 15 yrs. Admissions through the Board Physicians. The 
sick of the City Orphan Asylum are also treated here. There 
is a free dispensary connected with the hospital, open to all 
every day except Sunday, from 12 m. to 3 p. m. 

St. John's Hospital, for children, (visiting days Mondays 
and Thursdays, from 2 to 5 p. m.,) on I, bet. 20th and 21st 
sts. NW., is under the St. John's Sisterhood of the Episcopal 
Church. The Hospital will shortly occupy its new premises, 
on H, bet. 19th and 20th sts. NW. 

St. Ann's Infant Asylum, founded in 1863, is on the corner 
of K and 24th sts. NW., (visiting days Thursdays, from 2 fo 5 
p. m.) It is under the management of the Sisters of Charity, 
and for the children, under 5 years, of the poor. There is a 
lying-in hospital attached. 

St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum, founded in 1855, (writ- 
ing days Saturdays, from 2 to 5 p. m.,) on H, bet. 9th and 10th 
sts. N~W., is under the care of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. 
The male children at St. Ann's, arriving at 5 shears of age, 
are sent here. The building previously belonged to the 
Washington City Orphan Asylum, and was purchased in 
1866. 

St, Vincent's Female Orphan Asylum, founded in 1831, 
(visiting every day, except Saturday and Sunday, bet. 9 and 11 
a. m.,) is on the SW. cor. of H and 10th sts. jSTW. It is under 
the care of the Sisters of Charity. To this are transferred the 
female children at St. Ann's arriving at 5 years of age. 

A branch of this asylum, St. Rose's Orphan Home, estab- 
lished in 1871, and owned and cared for by the Sisters of 
Charity, is situated on G, bet. 20th and 21st sts. NW. Here 
the children, 13 years of age, are sent and taught a trade. 
It is open at any time, and sewing of all lands for ladies and 
children is taken. 

The Epiphany Church Home is on H, bet. 14th and 15th 

sts.W. 



CEMETERIES. 



The Home for the Aged, under the Little Sisters of the 
Poor, is on the NW. cor. of 3d and H sts. NE. 



CEMETERIES. 

Two squares known as the Eastern and Western Burial- 
grounds, were allotted hy the Government, in the beginning 
of the present century, for the interment of the dead. The 
Eastern, which stood in the eastern part of the city, was re- 
moved a few years since. The Western, later known as 
Holmead Cemetery, on 19th St., bet. S and T sts. NW., is be- 
ing removed. Here, for 40 years, rested the remains of Lo- 
renzo Dow, removed to Oak Hill Cemetery in 1874. 

Congressional (or Washington Parish) Cemetery, (open every 
day* except Sunday,) is situated on the banks of the Anacos- 
tia, and is accessible from the Washington and Georgetown 
Street Railway East, 
along E. st. S., dis- 
tant £ m. The Cem- 
etery, laid out in 
1807, originally com- 
prised about 10 a., 
but now r embraces 30 
a. The name Con- 
gressional originated 
from the fact that a 
number of sites are 
set apart for the in- 
terment of members 
of Congress, in re- 
turn for Government 
donations of land and 
money. The small 
freestone cenotaphs, 
to the memory of de- 
ceased members of 

Congress, form a conspicuous feature. The grounds are 
adorned with drives, walks, trees, shrubs, evergreens, and a 
large fountain. 

The oldest graves lie N. of the lodge, and are of date 1804-5. 
Near the superintendent's lodge is the grave of Commodore 
Tingey, second in command in the Algerine war. In the NE . 
portion lies George Clinton, of New York, Vice President 
of the United States, died in 1811. and Elbridge Gerry, of Mass- 




CONGKESSIONAL CEMETERY, CENOTAPHS. 



CEMETERIES. —•■ 

achusetts, signer of the Declaration of Independence and 
Vice President of the United States, died in 1814, This 
monument was erected by act of Congress. Not far off is 
the grave of Tobias Lear, private secretary and friend of 
George Washington, died in 1816. Near by are the graves 
of John Forsj r th, Secretary of State, and Commodore'Mont- 
gomery. On the 1. of the walk is the monument of Pus-ma- 
ta-ha, a Choctaw chief, the white man's friend, who died at 
Washington in 1824. Farther on is the monument to Wil- 
liam Wirt, Attorney General of the United States 1817-1829, 
died 1834. On the 1. of the carriage road, near the fountain, 
is the grave of General Alexander Macomb, Commander-in- 
chief of the United States Army, who died 1841. This mon- 
ument is a handsome piece of "workmanship, appropriately 
embellished and inscribed. A few feet off stands a broken 
shaft over the remains of Major General Jacob Brown, Com- 
mander-in-chief of the United States Arnry, died 1828. 

In the same vicinity is a monument to Abel Parker Up- 
shur, Secretary of the Navy 1841, Secretary of State 1843, 
died 1844, and Captain Kennon, killed by the explosion of 
the great gun on board the United States frigate Princeton. 
A few paces off stands the collossal monument to Joseph 
Lovel, Surgeon General of the United States Army, died 
1836. N"ear by is the monument erected to Major General 
George Gibson, U. S. A., Commissary General of Subsist- 
ence, 1861, and to Frederick Kogers, midshipman in the 
United States Na^y, drowned at Norfolk, Va., 1828, while 
making efforts to save Midshipmen Slidell and Harrison, his 
friends and companions in life and death. 

Among others are the Wainwright family, consisting of 
Commodore Richard Wainwright, Bvt. Lt. Col. R. Auch- 
matty Wainwright, Bvt. Lt. Col. Robert DeWar, of the 
United States ]STa\w. All of these lie in the Wainwright 
vault, in the southern extremity of the grounds. In the S. 
portion is the tomb of Alexander Dallas Bache, Superin- 
tendent of United States Coast Survey service. Also a mar- 
ble monument, representing a broken ship's mast, to George 
Mifflin Bache, of the brig Washington, and his associates, 
who perished at sea on September 3, 1846, in a hurricane. 
N~ot far distant is the monument erected to the young ladies 
killed by the arsenal explosion. 

The vaults and lots of some of the oldest citizens of the 
District are also in this cemetery. 

The public vault, erected by Congress, lies SE. of the 
entrance, about the centre of the cemetery. It is a massive 
structure, entered by an iron ctoor, which leads through a 
passage to a second iron door. 



208 DISTRICT GOVERNMENT. 



DISTRICT GOVERNMENT. 

The provisional government of the District of Columbia 
occupies a building on 4£ st. W., near Pennsylvania av. It 
is proposed to erect a suitable edifice on the space immedi- 
ately N. of the Centre Market. 

lire Department.— The force consists of 8 Steam Fire En- 
gines, 8 Hook and Ladder CompanieswVJi officers and 4 
horses and 10 men to eacli Engine. The service is under a 
Board of Fire Commissioners. There is also a Fire Alarm 
Telegraph, with the Central Station at Police Headquarters. 
The buildings were erected by the city, and have every con- 
venience. The foreman will show visitors everything of 
interest. 



In the early days housekeepers were required to have a certain number of buckets, 
with their names, for each story. In 1835 there were two fire engines, and in 1846 
seven. In 1861 the National Government engaged the services of the Hibernia 
Steam Fire Engine, of Philadelphia, and brought the first steamer to Washington, 
as a means of protection for the immense quantities of Government stores. In 1864 
the paid system went into operation. The Government then owned three steam fire 
engines, and the corporation three, and one Hook and Ladder Company. In 1S60. 

the government steamers were withdrawn, and the present organization 

inaugurated. 

Metropolitan Police. — This was established in 1861. In 
1866 a police telegraph was constructed. The police force 
consists of 238 officers and men, with duties extending 
throughout the entire District. There are 8 precincts. 

District Jail.— The present jail of the District of Columbia 
completed in 1875, stands on Reservation No. 13, on the 
banks of the Anacostia and N. of the Washington Asylum. 



The plan has an outer range of one-storied buildings of solid masonry, forming 
the enclosure of the jail proper. The latter is built of Maryland (Seneca) stone, 
brick, and iron, four stories high, with ranges of cells on each floor, joo in all. Be- 
tween the inner building and the outer walls there is a space of 16 ft. under the 
surveillance of the guards. 

The building is 310 by 193 ft., and from the stone base to the main cornice 50 ft. 
high, to the ridge 68 ft., and to the top of the cupola 90 ft. On either end of the 
building are ventilating shafts 86 ft. high, and, in conjunction with steam pipes 
under each tier of cells, preserve a regular temperature. The centre of the building 
forms a guard room 77 x 61 ft., from the floor of which springs the staircases to 
r.ach tier of cells. The W. projection contains the warden's office, guard and 
witness rooms; the E., a chapel and kitchen; the basement, the laundry and bath 
rooms. The structure was designed by A. B. Mullett, commenced in 1872, and 
cost $400,000. It can be easily converted into a penitentiary. 



THE MARKETS. 209 



THE MARKETS. 

The country around the National Capital produces fine 
vegetables of all descriptions, and the Potomac river and 
Chesapeake Bay afford not only fish and oysters unexcelled 
and in great quantities, but admirable facilities for supplying- 
the Markets with the earlier produce of more southern lati- 
tudes. The best qualities of meats and the finest game, 
aquatic and field, are also offered for sale at cheaper rates 
than other large cities. There are four principal markets in 
the city, two already accommodated with very fine perma- 
nent buildings. Strangers would find the markets a most 
interesting place for a visit. 

The largest is the Centre Market, erected by the Washington 
Market Company in 1870, comprising three commodious brick 
structures — a central building and two wings — length from 
E. to W., 410 ft., and which occupy the S. half of the square 
between 7th and 9th sts. W., on the S. side of Pennsylvania 
av., and accessible by horse cars on that av. and 7th and 9th 
sts. Market every day. 

The Eastern Market, on Capitol Hill, at the junction of 7th 
st. E. and North Carolina av., completed in 1873, is also a 
fine la^ge brick structure. 

The Western Market, on K between 20th and 21st sts. NW., 
and the Northern Market, between 6th and 7th and O and P 
sts. NW., at present temporarily occupy sheds. Brick struc- 
tures of large dimensions are now in course of erection for 
their accommodation. In the original plan of the city, 1791, 
there were three reservations for the E., W., and Centre 
Markets ; the latter, however, is the only one erected on the 
site originally set apart. 

The Northern Liberty Market, on 5th, bet. K and L sts. 
NW., J. H. McGill, architect, erected 1874-'5 by the North- 
ern Liberty Market Company, is one of the finest market 
structures in the United States. It is of brick, 324 ft. long, 
126 ft. wide, and 105 ft. total height. The roof rests upon 
massive iron girders, the largest of the kind in the world, 
which form an imposing arch the entire width of the build- 
ing. In the butchers' portion there are 28 sections, 17 x 19 ft., 
each containing 4 stalls. Cost, $140,000. On the E. is a 
paved space for the accommodation of market wagons. 

14 



210 PLACES OF HISTORICAL INTEREST. 



PLACES OF HISTORICAL INTEREST. 

The residence of Gen. J. P. Van Ness still stands on what 
was known as Mansion Square, about 6 a., at the foot of 17th 
st. W., between B and C sts. N., and where the Tiber then 
emptied its waters into the Potomac. It was previously the 
residence of David Burns, one of the original proprietors of 
the site of Washington, who owned, by inheritance through 
several generations of Scottish ancestors, what now consti- 
tute the linest portions of the city. Gen. Van Ness, a repre- 
sentative from New York, by his marriage, about 1802, with 
Marcia Burns, sole heiress of the Burns estate, enlarged the 
buildings, erected green houses, planted trees and fruits, and 
made other improvements, then considered very superior. 
The place was then one of the finest in the country. The 
square is enclosed by a brick wall, with a fine gateway and 
two lodges. Many of the venerable trees are still growing. 
The Van Ness warehouse, on the line of 17th st., is still stand- 
ing, though very dilapidated. The Washington canal ran just 
S. of it. Attorney General William Wirt occupied the fine 
old mansion, now the National Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan 
Asylum, on G St., between 17th and 18th sts. W. The Old 
Capitol, now converted into private residences, stands on the 
NW. corner of A and 1st sts. NE. Congress met here after 
the burning of the Capitol in 1814. During the war it was 
used as a political prison. Wirz, the prison keeper of Ander- 
sonville, was executed here. 

On North Carolina av., between 1st and 2d sts. SE., stands 
the venerable mansion of Duddington, owned by Daniel Car- 
roll, one of the original proprietors of the site of Washington, 



SECTION y. 



ENVIRONS OF WASHINGTON 



EOKGETOWN, the port of entry of the Dis- 
trict of Columbia, population 15,000, lies N". W. 
of Washington, separated by Kock creek, and is at 
the head of navigation of the Potomac river. It 
was laid out by George Gordon and George Beall, 
and incorporated in 1789. The site is peculiarly 
picturesque. The '''heights,' 1 '' dotted with villas, 
overlook a vast sweep of country, the Potomac and adjacent 
Capital. Georgetown before 1800 enjoyed considerable local 
importance, and a brisk river, coast, and foreign commerce. 





Ctfjrlght, 1874, DeB. R. Keim. 

GEORGETOWN AND AQUEDUCT. 

Georgetown may be reached from "Washington by the 
Metropolitan, F st., (Georgetown cars,) and the Washington 
and Georgetown, Pennsylvania av. horse cars. Arriving by 
the former at Washington St., a short walk leads to Oak 
Hill Cemetery, {open every day except Sundays and holidays, 
from sunrise to sunset.) The original grounds, 10 a., incor- 
porated by Congress, 1840, was the gift of W. W. Corcoran, 



212 



GEORGETOWN. 



<TV3 




VAN NESS MAUSOLEUM. 



from whom it has an endownent of $120,000. The present 
area is 30 a. It occupies a romantic spot, formerly Parrott-s 
woods, on the north- 
ern slope of George- 
town Heights, at the 
base oL which winds 
Rock creek, and has a 
fine chapel and public 
vault of the time of 
Henry VIII. 

Here is the Van Ness Mau- 
soleum, designed by Hadfield, 
after the Temple of Vesta at 
Rome, erected by Gen. Van 
Ness, and containing the re- 
mains of the General and his 
wife, Marcia Van Ness, nee 
Burns, of the family cf David 
Burns, one of the original pro- 
prietors of Washington. It 

formerly stood on H, bet. 9th and ioih sts. NW., Washington. In this Cemetery 
are the Corcoran Mausoleum, in white marble, Linthicum Memorial Chapel, the 
graves of Chief Justice Chase, Secretary Stanton, Generals Towson, of the war of 
1812, Plummer and Reno, killed in iSGi-^S, Commodore Morris, distinguished in 
the Algerine war, and Lorenzo Dow, the religious enthusiast, removed from Hoi 
mead Cemetery in 1S74. 

Returning to the same line of street-cars, and alighting on 
the r. side, at Market St., at the head of the street is the George- 
town High-Service Reservoir. The same point may be reached 
by turning to the r. outside the cemetery gate, and follow- 
ing Road st. to the corner of High. It consists of a domical 
reservoir, of brick, 120 ft. in diameter, with a capacity of 
1,000,000 galls., and is fed from the Aqueduct mains at the 
bridge over Rock creek by 2 pumps. The surface-water is 
215 ft. above tide and 70 ft. above the Distributing Reservoir. 
It supplies all that part of Georgetown over 100 ft. above tide. 

Descending the st. a short distance towards the city, and 
following the track to Fayette st., on the opposite corner is 
the Convent of the Visitation, founded in 1799, but not now 
open to visitors. The Academy, under the care of the Sisters 
of the Visitation, was founded at the same time, and occupies 
the building on the N\, rebuilt in 1873, and is open to visitors 
on Wednesdays and Saturdays after 12 noon. The entrance 
is by the door of the new building, where visitors will be re- 
ceived and conducted through the school. There are two de- 
partments : primary for girls from 6 to 12 years, and senior, 
for young ladies of all school ages. There is a fine philosoph- 
ical apparatus, chemical laboratory, and library. The Acade- 
my grounds comprise 40 a. Attached to the Convent is a vault 
containing the remains of Archbishop Neale, second Bishop 
of Baltimore, and founder of the institution, the daughter of 
Madame Yturbide, and the daughter of Gen. Winfield Scott, 



214 GEORGETOWN. 

a religieuse of the order. It is the oldest in the country. 
At the W. end of 2d st., Georgetown, is Georgetoion College, 
(open every day except Sunday,) founded in 1789, raised to a 
University in 1815, and the oldest Roman Catholic College 
in the country. It is under the care of the Fathers of the 
Society of Jesus. 

The original building, of imported brick, is still standing on the S., and is flanked 
by two of more modern construction. Boys of all ages are received and carried 
through an entire course of instruction. The library contains 30,000 volumes, 
amongst which are many rare and curious works. There are 100 volumes printed 
between 1460 and 1520, and three manuscripts anterior to 1400, and others later. In 
the Museum is a valuable collection of coins and medals and relics of Commodore 
Decatur. The Observatory is 400 yds. distant, on the W. (For Medical and Law 
Departments see page 201.) 

There are also fine Custom and Market Houses, Post Office* 
and many beautiful church edifices. On 2d and Potomac sts. 
is the Public School, 79x97 ft.', built 1874, of Potomac Seneca 
stone, brick, and iron ; has 3 stories, basement, and Mansard, 
was designed by Adolf Cluss, and cost 670,000. 

The building contains 8 school-rooms, a room for the Linthicum Institute and the 
Peabody Library, and a Hall capable of seating 900 persons. The Linthicum Insti- 
tute was founded in 1872 by Edward Linthicum, a retired hardware merchant of 
Georgetown, deceased 1872, who by will left $50,000 for the education of poor 
white boys. The Peabody Library fund, $22,000, was one of the numerous bene- 
factions of the American philanthropist and millionaire George Peabody. 

At the foot of the hill is the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. 

The Potomac Company, chartered by Maryland In 1784, completed a canal before 
l8ooaround the Little and Great Falls These efforts were followed by the eharter, 
by Congress, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, of the present enterprise. 
Work was commenced in 1828. The object was the connection of tide-water on the 
Potomac with the head of navigation on the Ohio, a distance of 360 m. In 1841 
the canal was opened 10 Cumberland, 182 m , at a cost of $13,000,000, of which 
Maryland subscribed $5,000,000, the United States $1,000,000, Washington, 1,000,- 
000, and Georgetown, Alexandria, and Virginia, each, $250,000. Cumberland re- 
mains the terminus. The execution of the enterprise was a work of great difficulty. 
There are 75 locks of 100 ft. in length, 15 ft. in width, and averaging 8 ft. lift ; 11 
aqueducts crossing the Monocacy river, consisting of 7 arches of 54 ft span ; also 190 
culverts of various dimensions, some sufficiently spacious to admit of the passage of 
wagons. The canal is fed by a number of dams across the Potomac, varying from 
500 to 800 ft. in length, and from 4 to 20 ft. elevation. The breadth of the canal is 
60 ft. for the first 60 m. above Georgetown, and for the remaining distance to Cum- 
berland 50 ft., with a uniform depth of 6 ft. The entire lift is about 600 ft The 
aqueducts, locks, and culverts are constructed of stone laid in hydraulic cement. 
The tunnel through the " Pawpaw Ridge" is 3,118 ft. in length and 24 ft. in diam- 
eter, with an elevation of 17 ft. clear of the surface of the water. The canal con- 
nects with Rock creek. From this point a canal, now out of use or filled, extended 
across Washington to the Anacostia. The canal to Cumberland opens the im- 
mensely valuable and rich coal sections of western Maryland and West Virginia. 
The unfinished portion of the canal trom Cumberland to Pittsburg is 178 m. 

The Alexandria Canal, incorporated by Congress in 1830, 
crosses the Potomac on a line Aqueduct 1,400 ft. long and 36 
ft. above high water. The piers are embedded 17 ft. in the 
bottom of the river, and are capable of resisting the immense 
weight of ice thrown against them by the current of the river 
in winter. 

A very interesting feature of the city are the coal wharves, 



ARLINGTON HOUSE AND NATIONAL CEMETERY. 215 



where the coal is transhipped into schooners for transporta- 
tion to the ports on the Atlantic seaboard. Georgetown is 
one of the largest shad and herring markets in the United 
States. The manufacturing interests of the city are small. 

At the E. end of Bridge st. is Rock-creek Bridge^ connect- 
ing the two cities. 

It consists of a 200-ft. span, with 20 ft. rise, the arch formed by two lateral 
courses of cast-iron pipe, 4 ft. internal diameter, and i\£ in. in thickness. The 
arch is supported on massive abutments of sandstone. The pipes convey the water 
of the Aqueduct across the stream, and at the same time carry a street road and horse 
railway. Here the Pennsylvania av. street cars may be taken back to Washington. 

Analostan, or Mason's Island, the large tract in the Potomac 
river, opposite Georgetown, contains 70 a., and was the res- 
idence of Gen. John Mason, commissary general of prisoners 
in the war of 1812. 

The Mansion still stands at the S. end, 50 ft. above the river. The now neg- 
lected grounds were also beautifully adorned. A causeway on the Virginia side and 
ferry-boat from Georgetown in former times afforded communication with the main 
land. James M. Mason, Confederate Commissioner to Europe, was born on the island. 




ARLINGTON HOUSE. 



Arlington House and Rational Cemetery (Open to visit- 
ors every day.) Arlington House, from 1802, was the resi- 



216 FORT WHIPPLE. 

denee of George Washington Parke Custis, the adopted son of 
Gen. Washington, and in late years of Gen. Kobert E. Lee, 
till 1861. It is on the Virginia shore of the Potomac, on the 
summit of a hill, 200 ft. above the river. It is about 4 m. from 
the Capitol, and about 1 m. from Georgetown, across the 
Aqueduct bridge . The view of Washington is without a rival. 
The center building, 60 ft., and two wings, each 40 ft., gives 
a frontage of 140 ft. In front is a portico 60 ft. long and 
25 ft. deep. The pediment rests on 8 doric columns (6 in 
front) 5 ft. in diameter and 26 ft. high, built of brick, stuc- 
coed. The design was from drawings of the temple at Paes- 
tum, near Naples. On the S. are the gardens and conserva- 
tory. In the rear are the kitchens, slave quarters, and stables. 

In the mansion, when occupied by its former possessors, were valuable pictures and 
other objects of historic interest. 

Arlington House in its halcyon days was famed for its 
hospitality. The last proprietor. Gen. Lee, came in posses- 
sion through his wife, who was the daughter of Mr. Custis. 
Having gone over to the rebellion against the National Govern- 
ment, and become its' military chieftain, the estate, upwards 
of 1,000 a., was abandoned. In 1863 it was sold under the 
confiscation act, and in ] 864 was taken possession of by the 
National Government. About 200 a. were set apart as a 
National Cemetery for the interment of deceased soldiers of 
the army. The Cemetery was formally established in 1867. 
In the rear and 1. of the mansion is an amphitheatre, capable 
of accommodating 5,000 persons, erected in 1873, and designed 
for use in the annual ceremonies observed on decoration day. 

The grounds were laid out with special reference to the 
purposes in view. The bodies of nearly 16,000 soldiers, from 
many a battle-field in Virginia and the hospitals at the capital, 
here find a fitting resting place. The W. Cemetery is devoted 
to white, and the N. to colored troops. A short distance S. 
of mansion is a granite sarcojyhagus, surmounted by cannon 
and balls, in 1866 placed over the grave of 2,111 unknown 
soldiers gathered after the war from the fields of Bull Run 
and the route to the Rappahannock. The carriage entrance 
is on the SE., through a freestone gateway of composite 
order, erected in 1873. On the frieze are suitable inscrip- 
tions, and over the arch "Here rest 15,585 of the 315,558 
citizens who died in defence of our country from 1861 to 
1865." On the 1. of the road leading from the main gate- 
way towards the river is the once-famous Custis spring. 
In 1850 it was visited from the capital by thousands of resi- 
dents and strangers. 

Fort Myer, readied by the road to the r. soon after 
crossing the Georgetown Aqueduct, lies a short distance NW. 
of Arlington House. It is now a station for the instruction 



AQUEDUCT AND GREAT FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 217 



of officers and men in army signalling. It was built during 
the rebellion, and constituted portion of the defenses cover- 
ing the Aqueduct and Long Bridge, and the intermediate 
Heights of Arlington. Then it mounted 6 12-lb. Napoleon 
guns and 4 12-lb. howitzers. 

The Aqueduct and Great Palls of the Potomac.— One of 
the most interesting excursions out of Washington is the drive 
by the Aqueduct to the Great Falls of the Potomac. 

Table of distances frem the 
Navy -yard to thcGreat Falls : 
From the Navy-yard to the 
E. front of the Capitol, \% 
m ; to Rock-Creek Bridge, 4 
5-5 m ; College-Pond Bridge, 
5 3-5 m; Foundry Branch, 6 
m ; Pipe Vault Dist. Res, 
6)^ m;' Influent Gate House, 
7 m ; Waste Weir, 7^ m ; 
Gate House Rec. Res., 9 m ; 
Wooden Bridge Rec. Res., 9 
1-5 m ; Brooks's Road, 9% 
in ; Cabin John Bridge, I2*/| 
in ; Mountain-Spring Bridge. 
l l l A m '■> CulvertNo. 12, i&i 
m;~Road at RadclifFs, 15^ 
m ; Junetion Road, 16 3-5 
m ; Bridge No. 2, 17 1-5 m ; 
Bridge No. I, 17% m ; Ov- 
erfall No. 1. 16 m; Waste 
Weir No. 1, i8 l /£ m; Great 
Falls Gate House, l8^£ m. 

Entering George- 
town from Pennsyl- 
vania av. the Aque- 
duct may be reached by Bridge and Fayette sts., and new 
road to the Distributing Reservoir, a distance of 2 m. 

The water surface of the reservoir is 33 a; capacity, 150,000,000 galls, at depth ol 
ii ft., and 300,000,000 galls, at 24 ft ; elevation, 144 ft. above mean tide at the Navy- 
yard. 

From this point the water is carried by iron mains into the city. [See Water Sup- 
ply, p. 46.J The Aqueduct terminates here, the influent gate-house standing on 
the NW. corner. A 7-ft. Auxiliary Conduit connects the influent and affluent gate- 
houses on the N. which may be used independently of the reservoir. 

The Aqueduct consists of a cylindrical conduit, of 9 ft. in- 
ternal diameter, constructed of stone and brick, laid in hy- 
draulic cement, and covered by an embankment or tunneled 
through the hills, and is carried across the ■sti earns by means 
of magnificent bridges, and has a fall of 9 J in. to the m. The 
capacity of the conduit, full, is 80 000,000 galls, every 24 hrs. 
The present mains carry off 30,000,^00 galls. ; the consump- 
tion, however, is but 17,000,000. 

From the Distributing Reservoir is a beautiful drive, 2 m. 
on the embankment of the Aqueduct, to Receiving Reservoir. 




THE GREAT FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 



218 AQUEDUCT AND GREAT FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 



The scenery on all sides is romantic in the extreme. On the 1. is the Potomac 
and the Little Falls. The Receiving Reservoir, a natural basin, formed by an em- 
bankment 65 ft. high, across Powder- Mill Creek, retains the water within the en- 
circling arms of the surrounding hills. It has a surface area of 52 a., a greatest 
depth of 53 ft., and drains 40,000 a. of the adjacent country. The Sluice Tower is 
in the S. end. A conduit extends around the S. side, connecting the Aqueduct, 
without passing through the Receiving Reservoir. The capacity Is 163,000,000 galls. 
The NW. boundary of the District crosses the Reservoir jhst beyon I the Sluiee 
Tower. The height of water in the Reservoir is controlled by a channel cut in the 
solid rock. The Aqueduct enters through a tunnel 803 ft. i:i length, and pierced 
through solid rock. 

Resuming the embankment. Cabin-John Bridge is reached: 
3 m. distant. 

This magnificent struc- 
ture springs the chasm of 
Cabin-John Creel; at a 
height of 101 ft. The 
bridge is erected of im- 
mense blocks of granite, 
with Seneca parapets and 
coping, and leaps the ra- 
vine in a single arch of 
220 ft. with 57J4 ft. rise 
from the springing line. 

The bridge is 20 ft. 
wide, and its extreme 
length 420 ft. It cost 
§237,000. This magnifi- 
cent work of art is un- 
equalled in the histor/ of 
bridge building. It is the 
largest stone arch in the 
world ; the second being 
that of the Grovesner 
Bridge, with a span of 200 
ft. which crosses the river 
Dee. One mile above is 
Mountain- Spring Brook, 
crossed by a beautiful el- 
liptical arch of masonry, 
75 ft span. The bridge 
is 200 ft. long, and cost 
$76,000. From this point 
the Aqueduct is conducted by means of 2 tunnels. 

About 3'% m. from the G:c-t Fulls a road leads around the hills. Before reaching 
the falls the scenery becomes exceedingly picturesque. The river is divided into 
two channels by Cupid's Bower and Bear islands, the latter the upper. At the falls 
the river is again formed into two channels by Conn's and Great Falls islands, the 
former the upper, and forms the Maryland and Virginia channels. Across the former 
is a dam of solid masonry, with gate-house and gates. This dam, should there be oc- 
casion, will be extended to the Virginia side. The Government owns the water- 
right, having 5 a. of ground. The dam is faced with massive guards of stone. The 
total water supply of the river is 1,196,019,511 galls, in 24 hrs. At this point the 
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is carried over the Aqueduct. 

At the Great Falls the Potomac breaks through the mountain in a channel nar- 
rowing to 100 yds. in width, and bounded on the Virginia side by perpendicular 
rocks 70 ft. high. The water falls over a series of cascades, making a descent of 80 
ft. in i' o m., the greatest single pitch being 40 ft. At a distance of 4 m. it widens, 
and its agitated waters quiet into an unbroken current About 10 m. below, at 
the Little Falls, about 3 m. above Georgetown, the stream makes a descent of 37 ft. 
in a series of cascades. Released from the mountains, after passing Georgetown, the 
river widens into the lake-like stream which we have seen in front of Washington. 




CABIN-JOHN BRIDGE. 



COLUMBIAN UNIVERSITY. 219 

There is a fine view of the Falls from either side, the ledges and rugged boulders 
Appearing to advantage. Mingling with the wild aspect of nature is the eedar, oak, 
willow, birch, and jessamine. Wild cherries and strawberries in season are found in 
great abundanee. The most venomous reptiles abound. The scene in winter is en- 
chanting, great masses of ice piled up on either side, and the rocks and trees frosted 
with spray, form a charming surrounding for the boiling torrent in the channel. 

HlStOTV. — Surveys for the supply of the city with water were made by Major 
L'Enfant, under the direction of Washington. In 1S50 surveys were made by Col. 
Hughes from the Great Falls and Rock creek. The first ground on the Washington 
Aqueduct was broken by President Pierce on Nov. 8, 1853, in the presence of a large 
assemblage of officials and civilians. The length of pipe line is 18 m. ; number of 
culverts, 26 m. ; tunnels, 12, the longest 1,438 ft. Total, 6,655 ft- Bridges 6, viz, 
cut stone, 4, and iron truss, 2. In Georgetown is a high-service reservoir 120 ft. 
in diameter. The work was commenced by Capt. M. C. Meigs, U. S. Corps of 
Engineers, and cost 3,500,000. The Aqueduct is the third in rank in the United 
States. 

Kalorama. — The residence of Joel Barlow, 180o-'ll, author, 
poet, politician, and diplomat, who died in Poland, 1812, 
stands on the brow of a beautiful hill, NW. of Washington 
and near the Metropolitan horse railway, Georgetown branch, 
at the P st. bridge over Rock Creek. 

About 5 min. walk from the W. end of the P street bridge, 
is a small brick vault, belonging to the Kalorama estate. 

In the vault are the remains of Judith Baldwin, wife of Joel Barlow, died 1818, 
Henry Baldwin, of Pennsylvania, an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the 
United States, died 1844; Abraham Baldwin, a Senator from Georgia, died 1807; 
and George Bomford, Colonel of U. S. Ordnance Corps, died 1848. The body of 
Commodore Decatur was also placed here, Mar. 24, 1820, two days after his fatal 
duel In 1846 Decatur's remains were removed to St. Peter's church burial ground, 
Philadelphia 

Meridian Hill.— N. of the city, at the terminus of 16th st. 
W., so named as being on the meridian of the District of Co- 
lumbia, indicated by the meridian stone, established imme- 
diately \V. of the National Washington Monument. It was 
formerly the residence of Commodore Porter. A village is 
now growing upon its commanding site. 

Columbian University. — (Open to visitors.) Occupies a fine 
site N. of the city ; 5 min. walk from the N. terminus of the 
14th st. horse railway ; was incorporated as a college in 1821, 
began 1822, a university 1873. (For Medical and Law De- 
partments, see page 201. 

The President and Chief Justice of the United States are honorary members of 
the Board of Trustees and Overseers. The regular course of American universities, 
classical and scientific, is taught. The average number of students, including the 
preparatory school, is 300, from all parts of the United States. The grounds com- 
prise 40 a., and, with the college edifice and other buildings, valued at $400,000. 
The main building is devoted to class-rooms, chapel, and dormitories. 

Howard University. — (Open to visitors.) Occupies a con- 
spicuous site 1ST. of the city on the r. of the 7th st. road and 
may be reached by horse cars from the N. terminus of 7th 
and 9th sts. horse railways. It was incorporated in 1867 for 
the education of youth, without reference to sex or color. The 
pupils, however, are almost exclusively colored. 



220 



11UWALID UNIVERSITY. 




The University Building, of patent brick, is 3 stories high, covered with a man- 
sard and tower, and -ontains philosophical, lecture and recitation rooms; library, mu- 
seum and offices. On the NE. is Miner If all, ladies' dormitories and dining rooms, 
named after Miss Miner, a teacher of colored children in the days of slavery, in the 
District. This lady left $5,000 invested in real estate in Washington ; since sold 
for $40,000, the interest of which is at present devoted to the normal department of 
the Univeisity. To the N. of the latter is the Normal Building, and N. of the main 
building is Clarke Hall, named after David Clarke, of Hartford, Conn., a gentleman 
of large benevolence and a liberal friend to the University. These halls accommo- 
date 300 students. There are also residences for the professors. The grounds com- 
prise 35 a. Total value of property, $6co,ooo. A short distance S. is the Medical 
Department and Freedmens Hospital, rented and managed under the Interior De 
partment. 



WAYLAND SEMINARY. 



22] 




Capitol Spring, — To the KE. of the Howard University is 
Smith's Spring, the waters of which were conducted in pipes 
to the Capitol in 1830. (Sec Capitol Grounds.) 

Wayland Seminary.— {Open to visitors.) Occupies a com- 
manding position N. of the city on Meridian Hill, about 10 mm. 
walk N. W. from the N. terminus of the 14th st. horse rail- 
way. 

The Institution was founded in 1865 by the Baptist church for the education of 
colored preachers and teachers. The building, which is of brick, three stories high, 
with basement, Mansard and lefty tower, was erected in iS7J-'4, cost §35,000, 
paid out of voluntary contributions, and will accommodate 200 students. The 



222 



SOLDiEll. HnME 



work was done by colored labor. The Seminary is one of the seven schools in the 
South, established and fostered by the American Baptist Home Mission Society. 
It is not yet in full operation in the new building. 




WAYLAND SEMINARY. 



Soldiers' Home, (grounds open everyday, except Sunday,) lies 
about 3 m. N". of the Capitol. It is one of the most attractive 
drives around the city. It may be reached by pedestrians 
from the " toll-gate" on the 7th-st. road, which point is ac- 
cessible by the 7th-st. and Silver Spring horse cars; the latter 
being a continuation of the former, though a separate line. 

The original site consisted of about 200 a., since ex- 
tended to 500 a. by purchases, including Harewood, the seat 
of W. W. Corcoran. The grounds are laid out in meadows, 
lakes, and 7 m. of beautiful drives. The main building, the 
dormitory, is of marble, Norman in design, and measures 
200 ft. front. In the rear is a wing of 60 ft., used for a mess 



GRAVE OF MAJOR PETER CHAISES L ENFANT. 223 



room. On the lawn are a flag-staff and cannon. On the 
E. of the main building is an additional dormitory, the sta- 
bles, conservatory, and fruit garden. On the W. is the Riggs 

homestead, now the 
hospital, and near by 
the quarters of the 
governor and officers 
of the institution . S. 
of this is the sur- 
geon's residence. 
SE.of the main build- 
ing is a beautiful Sen- 
eca stone chapel, fin- 
ished in 1871, and 
gardener's lodge. In 
the distance S. is the 
new hospital, a com- 
modious brick struc- 
ture, and the build- 
ings close by are used 
by the farmer. The 
Home was first open- 
ed in 1851, and has 
The soldiers ke.p the 




soldiers' home, main building. 



accommodations for 400 inmates 
roads in order and perform police duty. The Home was the 
.favorite summer residence of Presidents Pierce, Buchanan, 
and Lincoln. 

On the brow of the hill, £ m.W. of S. of the main building, 
raised on a granite pedestal, and facing the Capital, stands 
a statue of General Winjield Scott, at the time of his conquest 
of Mexico, by Launt Thompson, 1873, bronze, 10 ft. high, 
cast by R. Woods & Co., Philadelphia, Penna. Cost $18,000. 
Erected in 1874 by the Home. Through General Scott the 
Home was founded. From the site may be had an excellent 
view. 

In 1851 Congress appropriated out of the Treasury $118,791, the balance of $300,- 
000 pillage money levied on the city of Mexico by General Winfield Scott, to go to 
the founding of a Military Asylum or Soldiers' Home. This fund was increased by 
forfeitures, stoppages, and fines against soldiers, and a tax of 25 now 12 cts. a month 
on each private soldier of the regular army. The Home was for the benefit of the 
regulars and volunteers who served in Mexico, and now is for the privates of the 
regular army, they alone contributing for its support. Pensioners surrender their 
pensions while at the Home. 

Grave of Major Peter Charles L'Enfant, the designer of the 
plan of Washington, at Green Hill, the country seat of 
George W. Riggs, on the early manor of Chillam Castle, 
now Prince George's county, Maryland, is about 7 m. NE. 
of Washington. The grave is in the garden, the burial ground 
of the Digges family, the previous proprietors. The latter 
have been removed. The grave is without a marked stone. 



224 ROCK-CREEK CHURCH. 

Major L'Enfant was born in France about 1755. He was a 
subordinate officer in the French service. In 1778 he was 
made a captain of engineers in the Continental array. His 
gallantly and ability, displayed especially at Savannah, at- 
tracted the attention of Washington. In 1783 he was pro- 
moted to major. In March, 1791, he was ordered to George- 
town to join Mr. Ellicott, the chief surveyor, with instructions 
14 to draw the site of the federal town and buildings." Not 
sharing in the practical views of the commissioners, who 
desired copies of his plan for circulation, as an inducement 
to purchasers of lots, a controversy sprung up, which was 
aggravated by some high-handed measures, chiefly an attempt 
to demolish the residence of Mr. Carroll, one of the commis- 
sioners, which interfered with the execution of his plan on 
the ground. These resulted in his dismissal, after a brief 
service of one year. In 1794 he was employed on Fort Mif- 
flin, below Philadelphia. It is said he was offered, in 1812, 
a professorship of engineers at West Point. The last days 
of his life were spent around Washington. He found a home 
on the farm of Mr. Digges, and died in the summer of 1825, 
at the advanced age of 70 years. His remains still moulder 
beneath the sod where the kind hand of charity laid them. 

Rock-Creek Church and Cemetery. — {Church services, Epis- 
copal, every SaUbath at 11 a. m., and Cemetery open every day, 
except Sunday.) — The cemetery lies contiguous to the Sol- 
diers' Home on the 1ST., and is easy of access from the horse 
cars on the 7th-st. road. It comprises about one-half of the 
glebe, 100 a., the gift of John Bradford, about 1719. The 
church, which lies on the W., properly St. Paul's Episcopal 
Church, Rock-creek Parish, was erected in 1719, rebuilt in 
1775, and remodeled in 1868. The bricks were imported from 
England. The main walls are the same as erected in 1719. 
The bible used is an Oxford edition of 1727. Immediately 
around the church are a number of old graves, marked by 
rude stones, and over them stands a venerable oak, the out- 
spreading branches of which cover an area of 126 ft. in diam- 
eter. The oldest monuments are E. of the church, of the 
Gramphin family, 1775. In this cemetery is the grave of Pe- 
ter Force, with a fine monument. 

National Military Cemetery, (open from sunrise to sunset,) 
lies N. of and adjoins the Soldiers' Home, and E. of Rock- 
Creek Cemetery. It was established in 1861, and contains 
5,424 interments : known 5145, unknown 279, and Confeder- 
ates 271. There are a fine keeper's lodge and conservatory. 
Adjoining, on the N"., is the Cemetery of the Soldiers' Home. 



BLADENSBTJRG. 225 

Glenwood Cemetery, (open every day except Sunday,) 1$ 
m. N. of the Capitol, is situated at the head of Lincoln av., 
reached from the Columbia st.-raihvay at N. Capitol St., dis- 
tance 1 m. It was incorporated in 1854, and contains 90 a. 
The grounds are beautifully laid out in drives and walks. 
The public vault is a fine structure. Amos Kendall, 
Postmaster General 1835-'40 is buried here. Outside the 
gateway are Prospect Hill Cemetery, 17 a., incorporated in 
1860, St. Mary's (Roman Catholic) Burying Ground, 3 a. 

Bladensburg, a post-village of Prince George's co., Md., 
lies 6 m. N. E. of Washington, on the Baltimore railroad 
and turnpike. It was founded about 1750, and named 
after Martin Blanden, one of the Lords' Commissioners of 
Trade and Plantations. Before the Revolution it was a 
place of some commercial and agricultural importance. 
In those days the Anacostia, upon which it stands, ad- 
mitted of navigation to the town. Over the stream was 
the bridge, and W. the field of the disastrous battle of Au- 
gust 24, 1814, which opened Washington to the enemy, 
and gave the name of Bladensburg a place in history. On 
the open ground was the position bravely defended by 
Commodore Barney and his gallant soldiers and marines. 

About i m. S. E. of the village, on the turnpike, was the notorious " duelling 
gronnd." The District line runs through the valley, thus enabling parties 
from the District and Virginia to pass into Maryland. The most painful of 
all duels fought here was that between Commodores Decatur, the hero of the 
. Algerine war, and Barron, in 1820, in which the former was mortally wounded. 
The spot was the scene of many other duels, but not of late years. The duel 
between Henry Clay and John Randolph of Roanoke, in 1826, took place on 
the Virginia shore of the Potomac river, near Washington. 

Near Bladensburg, a short distance from the turnpike, stood the family man- 
sion of George Calvert, the lineal descendant of the Baron of Baltimore. 

Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb and 
National Deaf-Mute College, {open every day except Sun- 
day,) entrance at N. end of 7th st. E.. also W. end M st. 
N. ; 10 minutes from Columbia horse R. R. The grounds, 
known as " Kendall Green," were previously the home 
of Amos Kendall, Postmaster General of the United States 
1835-'40. The first portion occupied was but a few acres 
and a small building, presented by Mr. Kendall. Sub- 
sequently, 25 acres were purchased, and in 1872 the entire 
estate of 100 acres. The grounds and buildings were 
vested in the United States as trustee. 

The institution, incorporated in 1857, has since been sustained by Congress 
as the institution where Government beneficiaries, viz., deaf-mute children of 
the District of Columbia, and of the army and navy, should receive free edu- 
cation. A collegiate department was organized in 1864 by Congress, and U 
named the National Deaf-Mute College. Both are open to both sexes. 



226 



DEAF AND DUMB ASYLUM. 




THE COLUMBIA INSTITUTION FOK THE DEAF AND DUMB. 



The main central building, dedicated in 1871, was the gift 
of the Government. It is a fine specimen of the pointed 
Gothic architecture of the 14th century. It is 216 by 76 ft., 
and is faced on all sides with Connecticut brown-stone, in- 
terspersed with courses of white Ohio sandstone, and cov- 
ered with roofs of red and bine slate, laid in patterns and 
courses. 

The main entrance is under a recessed porch, formed by 
three pointed arches of alternate brown and white sandstone 
blocks, supported b} r double sets of dwarf columns of highly 
polished Scotch granite, with brown-stone bases and carved 
white sandstone capitals. This porch is paved with white 
and black marble tiles, and surmounted by an angular pedi- 
ment containing a carved half-relief figure of the Ameri- 
can eagle, with the stars and stripes on the shield over its 
breast. 

From this porch leads a small vestibule at either end into 
the main hall, or chapel, a room 56 ft. square and 38 ft. high, 
with a paneled ceiling of light and dark colored wood, with 
massive brackets, cornice, and panel mouldings, the walls be- 
ing frescoed in delicate tints in plain panels. The walls, to 
about 8 ft. from the floor, are protected by a paneled wain- 
scot, painted in strong party colors, with the pulpit, platform, 
and front, and folding-doors to match. The room is lighted 
by ten large stained-glass windows. 

Adjoining on the E M and separated from the chapel by 
eight sliding doors 15 ft. high and 27 ft. wide, is the lecture 
room. Over the sliding doors is a solid white sandstone arch 



MOUNT OLIVET CEMETERY. -27 

of 27 ft. span, springing' from light stone columns with carved 
capitals. The lecture room is about 30 by 40 ft. in size, with 
a raised floor. 

The remainder of the E . wing on this floor is occupied by 
a large dining-hall, or refectory, for the pupils of the primary 
department, with its corridors and stairs ; and with kitchens, 
bakery, and store-rooms in the basement below, and large 
dormitories in the attic above. 

The W. wing contains a large dining-hall for the students 
of the college, with its pantries and store-rooms. In the hall 
of this wing a stairway affords access to the tower. In the 
basement under this wing is an extensive laundry, steam- 
drying rooms, and store-rooms, while the basement under 
the chapel contains the fuel and boiler rooms. 

In the chapel is a line plaster cast of Abbe de l'Epee, taken 
from his tomb in the old church of Saint Roch, Paris ; also 
one of Abbe Sicard. The former, about the year 1760, de- 
veloped and applied the system of communication for deaf 
mutes b}'' means of natural signs. Abbe* Sicard subsequently 
perfected the system. There is also a portrait of the Rev. 
Thomas H. Gallauclet, formerly principal of the American 
Asylum at Hartford, Connecticut. That gentleman was sent 
abroad to acquire the system of instruction by natural signs. 
He chose the French system, now in use by the Institution 
aiicl College, and also generally throughout the United States. 
The E. building is occupied by the primary department, 
and contains several school rooms, chapel, library, reception 
parlor, private rooms of instructors, and dormitory for boys, 
and another in a remote part of the building for girls. The 
W. building is used by the College. In the rear and W. of 
the main central building is the finished wing of a dormitory 
for College students. The value of the property is $350,000. 

Mount Olivet Cemetery (open every day) lies on the 1. of 
the Columbia turnpike, ^ m. jST. of the E. terminus of the 
Columbia horse railway. It comprises 70 a. It was incor- 
porated in 1862, in the names of the parish priests of the 
four Roman Catholic churches of Washington. The grounds 
are well laid out, and shaded with oak and evergreens. 
Father Matthews, one of the earliest priests who arrived in 
the city after its occupation by the Government, is buried 
here, also Lieut. Col. Garesche, A. A. G. to General Rose- 
cranz, killed at Murfreesboro, 1862 ; Mrs. Surratt, executed 
for complicity in the assassination of President Lincoln ; and 
Wirz, the keeper of the Andersonville prison pen for na- 
tional soldiers during the rebellion, lSOl-^, and executed 
in Washington at its close. The entrance to the cemetery 



228 GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE. 

is at the SE . corner on the Columbia turnpike, where there 
is a neat superintendent's residence. 

G-raceland Cemetery {open from sunrise to sunset) is situated 
immediately outside the E. limits of the city, at the terminus 
of the Columbia horse railway. The cemetery was opened 
in 1872, and comprises about 40 a. 

Keform School of the District of Columbia occupies a com- 
manding site on the S. side of the Washington and Baltimore 
turnpike, 2 m. from the E. terminus of the Columbia horse 
railway. The school, which is for boys only, was established 
by Congress in 1866,- and is under the supervision of the 
Department of Justice. It was first located on the Govern- 
ment farm, on the Aqueduct road, 4 m. above Georgetown, 
but owing to the unhealthiness of that section was, in 1871, 
removed to its present situation. The farm comprises 150 a. 
The buildings stand on Lincoln's Hill, so-called from the 
fort of that name in the defenses of Washington during the 
rebellion, and which crowned the hill. They are 230 ft. 
above the Anacostia, which runs in the rear, and command 
a view of four railroads, portions of Washington, the National 
Insane Asylum, the Soldiers' Home, Bladensburg, the Mary- 
land State Agricultural School, and a vast sweep of country 
into Maryland and Virginia. 

The main building is occupied by the superintendent, 
boys' dining room, chapel, library, and reflecting room. The 
reception room for strangers is on the 1. of the main entrance. 
On either side of the main building are two detached wings, 
occupied by the assistants, and as school and dormitories. 
The boys divide their time in the school and shops. The 
boys are kept till reformed or their majority. The buildings 
and grounds will be greatly improved. 

Government Hospital for the Insane. — ( Visiting days, Wednesdays, 
from 2 to tf p. m., and friends of patients every day but Sunday.) 
This institution, founded in 1855, occupies a conspicuous 
site at the confluence of the Potomac and the Anacostia 
Rivers ; and commands an extensive view of those 
streams, and the capitol on the opposite bank. It is acces- 
sible by the Pennsylvania Av. street cars to the Navy 
Yard, thence by the Anacostia and Potomac Street Rail- 
way, across the fine iron bridge over the Anacostia, 
through Uniontown to the foot of the hill, within one mile. 

The Building was designed by Walter, architect of the Capitol, after plans 
suggested by Dr. C. H. Nicholls, first Superintendent, is of brick, in the Colle- 
giate Gothic style, consists of an imposing centre of four stories, wi h connecting 
ranges, and receding wings, three and four stories, with bold bum esses, iron 



ALEXANDRIA. 



229 



window hoods, and an embattled parapet; is 750 ft long and 200 ft. deep in 
the centre, and contains 550 single rooms. The West wing is for male, and 
East for female patients. The centre contains the residence of the Superin- 
tendent and staff officers, dispensary, chapel, rooms for billiards, and other 
games of amusement. The basement contains the kitchens, store rooms, etc. 
The large detached building S, erected under the supervision of Dr. W. W. 
Godding, is for special classes of patients. There are also detached buildings 
for the colored inmates, gas works, machine shops, barn and stables. There 
are aggregate accommodations for over 900 patients, averaging one-fourtu 
females. 

The home tract of 185 acres, part of an original grant of land called St. Eliz- 
abeth which name it still retains, is surrounded by a brick wall 9 ft. High, and 
tastefully laid out. The entire estate comprises 419 a. This is successfully cul- 
tivated for the benefit of the institution. The asylum is controlled by an Ad- 
ministrative Board and a superintending physician. It is for the use of the 
army and navy, and District of Columbia, embracing indigent and paying pa- 
tients, and is supported by the National Government at an annual expenditure 
of about $200,000, and ranks with the finest institutions of the kind in the world. 




GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE, 

Alexandria. — This city, originally called Bellhaven, stands 
in Virginia, on the r. bank of the Potomac river, at the con- 
fluence of that stream and Hunting Creek, 7 m. S. of Wash- 
ington. The boats of the Washington and Alexandria ferry, 
from the foot of 7th street W., reached by horse cars, run 
every hour from 6 a. m. to 7 p. m., on Sunday from 9 a. m. 
Single fare 15 cts., round trip 25 cts. The steam cars leave 
at the same intervals from 6 a. m. to 8 p. m. from the depot 
on 6th st., S. of Pennsylvania av. The city is picturesquely 
situated on the side of a range of low hills, and is surrounded 
by a fertile and well-cultivated country. The town was 
founded in 174S. In 1755 live colonial governors met here in 
connection with Braddock's expedition, which started here. 
In the earl} 7 " colonial days it was the rival of Baltimore in 
commerce, but superior advantages «and other facilities at- 
tractive of trade soon advanced the metropolis of Maryland 



230 



ALEXANDRIA. 



beyond the successful rivalry of the quaint Virginia town on 
th<? Potomac. 

During the Revolution 1776-83, it was a place of much strategic importance 
During the War of 1812 (Aug. 28, 1814), Fort Washington below having been* 
abandoned, the town fell into the hands of the British and was held five days. 
The city and county was in the first survey of the Federal territory, but was 
retroceded to Virginia in 1846. About 1 m. S. E. of the city on the point is 
the site of the initial comer stone of the Federal territory (District of Co- 
lumbia.) planted in 1791. The Alexandria Canal connects the city with 
Georgetown The principal exports are tobacco, corn and coal. It has rail- 
road connection with the North and South. The population is 13,658. 




VIEW OF ALEXANDRIA FROM THE RIVER. 



In the court of the Mansion House, on Fairfax St., is an old 
structure known as Washington's Headquarters, having been 
occupied, it is said, by the General when in Alexandria. At 
the intersection of Washington and Cameron sts. is Christ 
Episcopal Church, commenced in 1765 and finished in 1773, 
built of bricks imported from England. The interior has 
been renovated of late years; though some of the wood-work 
about the chancel is old. The principal interest is associated 
with the fact that Washington was a member of the vestry of 
this church. His pew was No. 59, on the 1. of the 1. aisle. A 
little back is pew No. 46, used by Robert E. Lee, General of 
the Confederate forces, who came here from Arlington to 
worship. Marble tablets on the 1. and r. of the chancel have 
been placed in the walls to their memory. In the church- 
yard the oldest tombstone is 1771. The city hall, market- 
house, and masonic hall occupy a fine building. Near the 
city is a National Cemetery, which contains the remains of 
3,635 soldiers of the rebellion. 

A branch of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal connects the 
city with Georgetown. The river in front is 1 m. wide. The 
shipping of the place amounts to about 182 vessels; sail, 
steam, and unrigged, 8,210 tons. The principal exports are 
tobacco, corn, and coal. It also has railroad communication 



MOUNT VERNON. 



231 



with ti-« N". and S. A new line, to connect with the Balti- 
more and Ohio Railroad at Bladensburg, is now being omit, 
and will cross the Potomac at this point. 



Mount Vernon, steamer daily, except Sunday, at 10 a. m., 
from the foot of 7th st. W., reached 
by horse-cars, fare $1.00 round trip, 
to include admission to the grounds. 
Distance, 15 m. Return 4 p. m. 

Leaving the wharf, the boat runs 
close to the shore, and along the 
Arsenal grounds, at the foot of 
which the Anacostia enters the Po- 
tomac. The village on the r. is 
Uniontown, and on the hill is the 
National Insane Asylum. On the 
1. is the Navy Yard. On the S. 
point of the river is Giesboro'. Dur- 
ing the rebellion a large number of 
cavalry horses were kept here for 
the supply of the army. During a 
stampede on one occasion over 1000 
were drowned in the river. The 
steamer now directs her course to- 
wards Alexandria, 6 m. below. Af- 
ter leaving Alexandria, the steamer 
passes Jones's point on the r. A 
lighthouse stands on the point at 
the location of the initial stone of the 
boundaries of the District, planted 
in 1791. The lines extend NE. and NW. Hunting creek 
here enters the Potomac. The steamer next touches at 
Fort Foote, an earthwork on the Maryland shore. Broad 
creek enters below. The next landing is at Fort Washington, 
on the same side. This is an old work, mounting guns in 
casemate and barbette. On the high ground opposite the 
first view of the home of Washington may be had. The 
road from the wharf leads to the vault within which is the 
marble sarcophagus containing the remains of General George 
Washington. By the side is another with the simple inscrip- 
tion, Martha, the consort of Washington, who died May 21, 
1801, aged 71 years. The obelisk on the r. approaching is to 
Bushrod Washington, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court 
of the United States, a nephew of General Washington, and 
to whom Mount Vernon was bequeathed, died 1829. That 
on the 1. is to John Augustine Washington, to whom Mount 




THE MANSION. 



232 



MOUNT VERNON. 



Vernon was bequeathed by Judge Bushrod Washington, died 
1832. The path to the r. leads towards the mansion. On 
the 1. is the vault in which the remains of Washington were 
first placed. 

The Mansion fronts NW., the reai looking toward the river. 
It is of wood, cut in imitation of stone, and 96 ft. in length, 
surmounted by a cupola. The centre was built by Lawrence 
Washington, brother to the General ; the wings were added 
by the General. It is named after Admiral Vernon, in whose 
expedition Lawrence Washington served. The house and 
grounds, 6 a., as far as practicable, are as left by Washing- 
ton. 

The Mount Vernon Ladies' 1 Association of the Union, incor- 
porated in 1856, purchased the mansion and contiguous 

grounds. In the hall is the key to 
the Bastile, presented to Washing- 
ton by Lafayette after the destruc- 
tion of that French prison, 1789. 
In the E. parlor are interesting 
relics of Washington — a dress, 
sword, spy-glass, water buckets, 
tripod. In the dining hall are 
portraits of Washington in 1786, a 
copy from Trumbull, and a copy 
from Stuart, 1795. The mantel 
was carved in Italy and presented. 
In this room is the great painting 
of Washington before Yorktown, by 
Rembrandt Peale. He is repre- 
sented as accompanied by Generals 
Lafayette, Hamilton, Knox, Lin- 
coln, and Eochambeau, and giving 
orders to commence the entrench- 
ments before Yorktown. In the 
W. parlor is an old painting repre- 
senting the attack on Carthageria, 
Admiral Vernon commanding, 
1741, and Washington's holsters 
and camp equipage, also a globe. 
In the second story, at the head of 
room. The room in which Wash- 
ington died, December 14, 1799, is at the S. end of the build- 
ing on this floor. It is a small apartment. The bed is that 
on which lie rested. There is a fine view of the surround- 
ing country from the cupola. On the r. of the mansion 
facing the lawn are the servants' hall, gardener's lodge, a 
modern building, and the spinning and weaving house. On 




GRAVE OF WASHINGTON. 

the stairs, is Lafayette 's 



DEFENSES OE WASHINGTON. 233 

the same side is the garden laid out by Washington. On the 
X. side are conservatories which replaced the old ones con- 
sumed by fire. The ruins of the old servants' quarters are 
near by. On the opposite side of the lawn are the family 
kitchen, butler's house, smoke house, and laundry, and in 
the rear of all the stables. On the lawn are several ash and 
and a magnolia tree planted by Washington. 

Defenses of "Washington. — The inauguration of actual hos- 
tilities by the bombardment of Fort Snmter, April 12, 13, 
1861, warned the National Government of the necessity of 
measures of protection. One of the first thoughts was the 
security of the Nation's Capital. The hastily-improvised first 
defensive preparations, after some squeamish hesitation about 
invading a State, were seconded by occupying the S. shore of 
the Potomac, and holding the debouches into Virginia. This 
was necessitated by the proximity of Arlington Heights, from 
which the enemy's artillery could shell the city. On the night 
of May 23, 1861, the army, in three columns, crossed the 
Potomac, one, under Major Wood, by the Georgetown Aque- 
duct; another, under Major (General) Heintzehnan, by the 
Long Bridge; and the third, under Colonel Ellsworth, by 
water to Alexandria. Fort Corcoran, a tete-de-pont, was 
commenced before daylight, and, with its auxiliary works, 
Forts Bennett and Haggerty and rifle trenches, around the 
head of the Aqueduct, Forts Kunyon, on the lowland — a tete- 
de-pont — and Albany, on Arlington Heights, covering our 
debouches from the Long Bridge, and Fort Ellsworth, on 
Shuter's Hill, back of Alexandria, formed the basis of the 
line S. of the Potomac. By the time of the advance of 
McDowell's army, seven weeks, these works were nearly 
completed. 

The Bull Run disaster made it apparent that a protracted 
war was inevitable. The Heights of Arlington were effect- 
ively fortified by intermediate works, and, with Fort Run- 
yon, formed a " couronne," covering the bridge and heights. 
These works were preliminary and auxiliary to that line, of 
impregnable fortifications which later encircled the Capital. 
The system of works, constituting and appropriately desig- 
nated the Defenses of Washington, were divided into four 
groups. 1. Those S. of the Potomac, commencing with Fort 
Lyon, below Alexandria, and terminating with Fort De- 
Kalb, (Strong,) opposite Georgetown. 2. Those of the Chain 
Bridge. 3. Those iV". of the Potomac, between that rivei 
and the Anacostia, commencing with Fort Sumner and ter- 
minating with Fort Lincoln. 4. Those S. of the Anacostia, 
commencing with Fort Mahan and terminating with Fort 



234 DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON. 

Greble, nearly opposite Alexandria. The perimeter, from 
Forr, Lyon to Fort Greble, "was 33 m., and, including the in- 
terval across the Potomac, between Greble and Lyon, a total 
of 37 m. At the close of hostilities, in April, 18(35, the De- 
fenses consisted of 68 inclosed forts and batteries and em- 
placements, for 1,120 guns, 807 of which, and 98 mortars, 
were actually mounted : 93 unarmed batteries for field guns, 
having 401 emplacements, and 20 m. of rifle-trenches, and 3 
block houses. There were also 32 m. of specially-constructed 
military roads. 

In 1864 the garrisons S. of the Potomac consisted of one 
division, under General DeRussy, four brigades, under 
Colonels Tidball, Tannatt, Abbott, and Schirmer — 11,011 
men ; N. of the Potomac, one division, under Lieutenant 
Colonel Haskin, aid-de-camp, with three brigades, under 
Colonels Morris, Gibson, and Piper — 18,863 men. To pre- 
vent a sudden dash, the minor roads were obstructed by 
abattis and stockades. The fords of the Potomac above and 
the S. front were picketed with cavalry. An infantry divis- 
ion lay towards Bull Run, and infantry pickets were stationed 
on the N". front. A provost guard of 1,776 men, under General 
Martindale, were on duty in "Washington, and 1,090 men, 
under General Slough, in Alexandria. At the artillery depot 
at Camp Barry were 2,000 men and 17 batteries. 

The garrisons varied in numbers, yet the over-sensitiveness 
of the Government, respecting the safety of the Capital, con- 
stantly required the presence of a large force. The exigen- 
cies of the service in the field, however, on several occasions 
necessitated a reduction. 

The efforts of Gen. Grant, in 1864, to overwhelm Lee had 
caused the withdrawal of the well-trained artillerists, and 
their places were filled by new levies. As an ofl'set to the 
vigorous movements of the Army of the Potomac, Early 
made his demonstration upon Washington. A brisk engage- 
ment took place at Rockville, 16 m. from Washington. On 
July 11, with 20,000 men, he appeared before Fort Stevens, 
on the 7th-st. road. The pickets retired, and the guns of 
Fort Stevens, Slocum, and DeRussy opened and checked the 
enemy, who retired the following night. 

The ruins of the now dismantled and deserted Defenses of 
Washington may yet be seen on almost every eminence in 
the vicinity of the city. During their use they accomplished 
an important work. They saved the nation from further ca- 
lamities after Bull Run, when the enemy was in sight on 
Munson Hill, and from attack after the failures of McClel- 
lan's campaign against Richmond, and the retreat of Pope, 
in 1862. It is to be hoped the hand of fratricidal strife may 
never again revive the sad work. 



SECTION VI. 

HISTOM OF WASHINGTON 




[HE first attempt to explore the Chesapeake and 
its tributaries was made in 1608, by Captain John 
Smith, from the Jamestown settlement. He left an 
interesting narrative of his discoveries. He speaks 
of the "Patawoineke " as 6 or 7 m. in breadth, and 
navigable 140 m. The Indian name was Cohongu- 
roton, or river of swans. The shores of the great bay and 
liver had a large aboriginal population, not less than forty 
tribes, members of the numerous and warlike Algonquin 
family, who lived by fishing, the cultivation of maize, and 
warring upon their neighbors. The point of the tongue of 
land now occupied by the Arsenal was the seat of the council 
fire. The Manahoacks occupied the lands between the rivers, 
but about 1669, after a severe war with the Powhatans, were 
overcome, and fled to the West, where they joined the Tus- 
caroras. 

In 1634. Henry Fleet, with a party of Calvert's settlers, vis- 
ited the falls of the Potomac. In 1^63, a tract of land 400 a., 
called Room, (Rome,) was laid out for Francis Pope, gentle- 
man, on the east side of the Anacostian river, and to the 
mouth of the Tiber. Another tract, of 500 a., for Captain 
Robert Troop, called Scotland Yard, was laid out adjoining 
on the same date. The lands of the western portion of the 
city, called "The Widow's Mite," 600 a., were laid out in 
1681 for William Langworth. All were in Charles county, 
province of Maryland. 

In 1790-'91, Daniel Carroll owned the lands on the Ana- 
costia, Motley Young, in the forks of the river and to the 
northward, and David Burns on the west, towards George- 
town. On the bank of the river, east of the Observatory, 
was a settlement called Hamburg, previously Funkstown. 
On the Anacostia, a short distance above the Arsenal, was 
Carrollsburg. The arable lands were tilled, and produced 
wheat, tobacco, and maize. 

On April 30, 1783, nineteen days after the proclamation of 

(235) 



23G HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

a cessation of hostilities between the late British Colonies in 
North America and the mother country, the subject of a per- 
manent capital for the general government of the United 
States of America was incidentally alluded to in Congress. 
In March, 1783, the legislature of New York offered to cede 
the town of Kingston as a place of permanent meeting. 
Shortly after, Maryland tendered Annapolis for the same 
purpose ; also $180',000 if selected. 

A proposition by a prominent gentleman was the location 
of the capital, for a term of thirteen years, at some of the 
growing western settlements, such as Detroit, Louisville, 
Kaskaskia, St. Vincent's, and Sandusky; stating that "an 
amazing value would be added to that important territory ; " 
that it would * k accelerate the rapidity of its settlement and 
population," and at about twelve cents an acre would extin- 
guish the national debt; that Congress should assume plen- 
ary jurisdiction over a compass of twenty miles square ; should 
form a government "on the most perfect plan of modern re- 
finement; " in place of certificates, should award the lands in 
the vicinity "to those brave officers and men who served in 
the late glorious war." These, Spartan-like, it was expected, 
would form "an impregnable bulwark against the natives," 
or any other dangers. Williamsburg, the old capital of Vir- 
ginia, was offered at the same time. 

On October 6, 1783, Congress voted upon the selection of 
a State, as they existed at that time, beginning with New 
Hampshire, and proceeding in order southward. New Jersey 
and Maryland received the highest number of votes, but no 
choice was made. The next day. on a resolution by Eld ridge 
Gerry, the location of the "Federal City" was voted on or 
near the falls of the Delaware, near Trenton, and a commit- 
tee of live was appointed to examine the locality and report. 
On October 21 following, the erection of buildings was author- 
ized at or near the lower falls of the Potomac or Georgetown, 
and a committee was appointed to examine and report on that 
site. Two localities were now provided for, and meanwhile 
Congress was to meet alternately at Trenton and Annapolis. 

The inconvenience of two capitals was soon demonstrated. 
The Delaware committee reported favorably, and that for the 
Potomac unfavorably on that location, though they thought 
better of a site above Georgetown, or 1£ m. below, at Funks- 
town. On December 20, 1784, it was decided inexpedient to 
erect buildings at more than one place. On December 23 
three commissioners were appointed to lay out a district of 
not less than two nor more than 3 m. square, on either side 
of the Delaware, within 8 m. above or below the falls. 

Commissioners. — 1791-'94, Thomas Johnson, Md.; 1791-'9* 



HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 237 

Daniel Carroll, Md. ; 1791-94, David Stuart, Va. ; 1794-1800, 
Gustavus Scott, Md. ; 1794-1802, William Thornton, Penn. ; 
1795-1802, Alexander White, Md. ; 1800, William Cranch, 
Md. ; 1800-1802, Tristram Dalton, Md. 

The Constitution of the United States, 1787, gave Congress 
the power "to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases what- 
soever over such district, not exceeding 10 m. square, as may, 
by cession of particular States and the acceptance of Con- 
gress, become the seat of the Government of the United 
States." * * * (Art. I, Sec. 8.) 

The first session of Congress of the United States of Amer- 
ica, assembled under the Constitution, was called upon to 
enter into this question, confronted by a stronger evidence of 
sectional spirit than had hitherto been exhibited. Kesolutions 
from the legislatures of States, besides numerous petitions 
and memorials, were presented, urging certain localities, and 
frequently offering great inducements. Districts of 10 m. 
square, with the right to exercise exclusive jurisdiction, were 
offered to Congress for the seat of Government by acts of the 
General Assemblies of Maryland in December, 1788, Penn- 
sylvania in September, 1789, and Virginia in December, 1789. 
As an additional inducement, Virginia offered $120,000, and 
Maryland $72,000. Pennsylvania, in her grant, excepted 
Philadelphia, the district of Southwark, and part of the 
Northern Liberties. Petitions were also received from the 
inhabitants of Trenton, in New Jersey ; Lancaster, Wright's 
Ferry, York, Carlisle, Harrisburg, Beading, and German- 
town, in Pennsylvania, and Baltimore and Georgetown, in 
Maryland. All expressed their willingness to come under the 
aegis of Congress and the Constitution, and pictured in glow- 
ing colors the advantages of climate and scenery, and conve- 
niences of access which their respective localities possessed. 
The newspapers of the day frequently took a humorous view 
'of this patriotic competition, and in prose and verse gave vent 
to considerable good-natured sentiment. 

In the second session the Capital question was again agi- 
tated, and Baltimore, Wilmington, the Delaware, German- 
town, between the Potomac and the Susquehanna, were all 
urged ; but the act establishing the temporary Seat of Govern- 
ment at Philadelphia, from the first Monday in December, 
1790, and the permanent on the river Potomac, between the 
mouths of the Eastern Branch (Anacostia) and Conogo- 
cheague, a tributary of the upper Potomac, to be ready for 
the sessions of Congress by the first Monday in December, 
1800, was finally passed, and approved by Washington July 
16, 1790. In the Senate it received 14 yeas and 12 nays, and 
in the House 32 yeas and 29 nays. The immediate settle- 



238 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

ment was effected as a compromise with the advocates of a 
fiscal measure known as the assumption of the State debts. 
The majority of the votes of the Middle States going with 
the South, gave the majority for the Potomac. 

The Legislature of Virginia, in December, 1790, appropri- 
ated the $120,000 previously offered, payable in three annual 
installments. In December, 1791, the Legislature of Mary- 
land gave an order for the payment of the $72,000 donated 
by that State. The December before, the same Legislature 
passed an act for providing for the condemnation of land, if 
necessary, for the public buildings. On January 22, 1791, 
the first commissioners, three in number, were appointed to 
superintend the affairs of the city. On January 24 the Presi- 
dent issued a proclamation directing the commissioners to lay 
down the four experimental lines of boundary, as follows : 

First, by running a line from the court-house of Alexan- 
dria, in Virginia, due SW. £ m., and thence a due SE. course 
till it struck Hunting Creek. This was to be the initial 
point, from which the first line was to run due NW. 10 m. ; 
the second into Maryland due NE. 10 m. ; the third clue SE. 
10 m. ; and the fourth due SW. 10 m. to the beginning, on 
Hunting Creek. These were approved by Congress. The 
original act required the location of the District above the 
mouth of the Eastern Branch or Anacostia river. To con- 
form the law to the experimental lines, an amendatory act, 
approved March 3, 1791, repealed the conflicting portion of 
the act of July 16, 1790, but required the public buildings to 
be erected on the Maryland side of the Potomac. After the 
completion of the necessary legislation on the subject, Presi- 
dent Washington set out on a visit to the Potomac. He 
arrived March 28, 1791, and put up at Suter's tavern, a one- 
story frame structure, the favorite resort of travelers arriving 
at Georgetown. On March 29, in company with the three, 
commissioners and the surveyors, Andrew Ellicott and Major 
Peter Charles L'Enfant, he rode over the ground. The same 
night a meeting was held for the purpose of effecting a re- 
conciliation with the property owners. There were some 
who desired to derive all the advantages offered by the pro- 
posed city without making a reasonable concession to its 
success. The counsel of Washington had its effect. The 
general terms agreed upon were signed by nineteen of the 
original proprietors. The President issued a proclamation, 
dated March 30, 1791, at Georgetown, which defined the lines 
of the Federal territory accepted by Congress, and ordered 
the commissioners to proceed forthwith to have the lines 
permanently marked. 

The President now left for a brief visit to his home at 



HISTORY OP WASHINGTON. 239 

Mount Vernon; thence he proceeded to Richmond, Va., to 
consult with Gov. Beverly Randolph respecting the payment of 
the $120,000 appropriated hy the Commonwealth of Virginia 
towards the building- of the Capital. On April 13 he wrote, 
informing the commissioners that the Governor was willing 
to advance the money at earlier periods than agreed upon. 
On April 12 the commissioners held their first regular meet- 
ing at Georgetown. On April 15 the initial or corner-stone 
of the lines of the Federal territory was formally planted in 
the presence of the three commissioners, Andrew Ellicott, 
the surveyor, and the Masons and many citizens of Alexan- 
dria. James Muir, the pastor of that Episcopal parish, deliv- 
ered a sermon. On June 29 a final settlement was effected, 
by which the lands ceded to the Government were conveyed 
in trust to Thomas Beall, of George, and John M. Gantt, of 
Maryland, or their heirs, for the United States. The streets, 
squares, parcels, and lots were to be laid out, and conveyed 
by the trustees to the United States ; the residue of the land 
was to be divided equally. For their share the United States 
were to pay £25. or $66 66f an a. The streets and squares 
went to the Government free. There were other stipulations 
respecting sales of lands and payment of indebtedness to the 
proprietors. They were also permitted to occupy the lands 
till required for public use. Owing to a disagreement, the 
streets and reservations were never conveyed to the commis- 
sioners. The law officer of the Government and the Supreme 
Court of the United States, however, have decided that the 
United States have absolute control over them notwithstand- 
ing. An act of Maryland, Dec. 19, 1791, ratified the cession 
of its portion of the Federal territory, and designated certain 
powers and duties of the commissioners, who were also au- 
thorized to take possession, in the same proportion as agreed 
with the others, of lots in Hamburg and Carrollsburg. The 
inhabitants of Georgetown, who so requested, were to be in- 
cluded, provided they conformed to the general terms of 
the agreement, which they declined. 

The laying out of the city according to the plans prepared 
by L 'Enfant, which were approved by Washington in Aug., 
1791, was carried out under the direction of Andrew Ellicott, 
a native of Bucks county, Perm., a gentleman of fine attain- 
ments, and who had executed a number of important sur- 
veys. He was born in 1754, and died at West Point in. 1820. 

The first step was the establishment of the "meridian 
line"- through the site of the Capitol, and the E. and W. in- 
tersecting line, which were to form the basis of the execution 
of the entire plan. At a meeting of the commissioners on 
Sept. S, 1791, certain regulations were prescribed in regard 



240 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

to the erection of private buildings, and the present names of 
the city and District and designation of the streets were 
adopted. The first public sale of lots, of which the Govern- 
ment had 10,136, took place at Georgetown on Oct. 17, 1791. 
A large number of purchasers were present from all parts of 
the country, and the prices paid ranged from $26 66 to $306 59, 
During the summer and autumn of 1791 the commissioners 
also made preparations for the commencement of work early 
in the following spring. Contracts for building material and 
food were awarded, and a freestone quarry on Higgington's 
island, 40 m. below the city, was purchased. 

The President's House was the lirstof the public buildings 
commenced. An historical sketch of each of the public 
buildings will be found, with their description, in the Hand- 
Book. 

The building of the city, as might be expected, attracted a 
number of that class of persons who, though poor in means, 
were still rich in schemes. Among the earliest was one 
Samuel Blodgett, who appeared on the scene as an applicant for 
permission to build an entire street, which was granted. After 
considerable planning and negotiating, the enterprise was 
abandoned, the commissioners having no funds to spare, and 
Blodgett's being all in anticipation. Undaunted, however, 
the same person undertook the erection of a great hotel, the 
funds for which were to be raised by lottery, the hotel being 
the first prize. The building was partly erected, and was 
drawn by a person without means to complete it. It re- 
mained unfinished till purchased, years after, by the Govern- 
ment for the Post and Patent Offices. 

In 1793, the commissioners entered into an agreement 
with Kobert Morris and James Greenleaf for the sale of 6,000 
lots, at $80 a lot, payable in seven annual installments, with- 
out interest, they obliging themselves to erect, in 1794, and 
annually for six years, twenty brick houses, two stories high. 
The above two and John Nicholson bound themselves to ful- 
fill the contract. The parties failed to comply with any por- 
tion of the contract, which led to the serious embarrassment 
of the commissioners. 

One of the great obstacles in the way of the commission- 
ers in the beginning was the scarcity of skilled workmen. 
Agents were sent to the northern cities, and some importa- 
tions were made from abroad. The slaves from the adjacent 
plantations were almost exclusively employed as laborers. 

In 1796, Congress authorized the commissioners, under 
the direction of the President, to borrow $300,000, and, at 
the same time, assumed a supervision of the affairs of the 
city, requiring the commissioners to report their operations 



HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 241 

semi-annually to the Secretary of the Treasury. Meeting 
with no success in negotiating their loan in Holland, whence 
the first application of the commissioners was made, the As- 
sembly of Maryland came to their rescue bv granting them 
a loan of $100,000. 

The election of John Adams at first excited some solicitude 
on the part of the friends of the Federal city, in considera- 
tion of the opposition to the selection of the Potomac site 
shown by the New England States in the discussion and vote 
in Congress in 1790. The President, however, gave assur- 
ance of a determination to carry out the views of his prede- 
cessor. 

In 1799, after a long discussion, Congress voted another 
$100,000 to the commissioners, which amount was also ad- 
vanced by the State of Maryland. The next year $50,000 
was obtained from the same source, on the personal security 
of the commissioners. 

In Februaiy, 1800, they executed the papers necessary to 
the security of all the loans or advances to the city, both 
from the State of Maryland and the National Government, 
amounting to $300,000, exclusive of the last loan of $50,000. 
For that purpose they pledged all the property in the city 
sold or contracted for before that time, and upon which pay- 
ments had not been made. The land acquired or purchased 
for the United States and yet unsold, exclusive of lots for- 
feited for non-payment of purchase money and then liable to 
be sold, amounted to 4,682 lots and 2,043 ft. frontage on 
navigable water, valued at $884,750. The debt was $144,125, 
and contracted for on the credit of the above funds of $3G0,- 
881. The N. wing of the Capitol, the President's House, 
and War and Treasury Offices, the first commenced in 1797, 
were ready for occupation. A number of dwellings had 
been erected by private parties in the vicinity of the Capitol, 
President's House, and Greenleaf's Point. Pennsylvania 
av., the thoroughfare from the Capitol to the President's 
House, was ditched. Other avenues and streets connecting 
the widely-scattered parts of the city were also opened. The 
reservations around the Capitol and President's House were 
planted. A turnpike was also opened to Baltimore. Suita- 
ble provisions having been made by act of Congress dated 
April 24, "\800, the archives of the Government were con- 
veyed to Washington. The Executive and offices were 
transferred at the same time. On November 21 Congress 
commenced its sessions in the N. wing of the Capitol. Con- 
gress assumed jurisdiction over the District of Columbia in 
1801, and declared that the laws of Virginia and Maryland 



242 HTSTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

should continue respectively in force in the portions of the 
District ceded by those States. 

In 1802 the Board of Commissioners was abolished and 
succeeded by a superintendent, Thomas Munroe, who was re- 
quired to settle up all accounts, and to sell a sufficient number 
of the lots pledged for the repayment of the loan of $200,000 
from the State of Maryland, so as to meet all obligations of 
interest and installments. In event of an unwarrantable sac- 
rifice of the property to meet these demands, the sale was to 
cease, and the balance was to be paid out of the Treasury of 
the United States. Lots not paid for were also to be sold to 
meet the loan of $50,000 from the State of Maryland, or, if 
not sufficient, the residue was to be paid out of the Treasury. 

Maijorsof Washington. — 1802, Robert Brent ; 1812, Daniel 
Rapine ; 1813, James H. Blake ; 1817, Benjamin G. Orr ; 1819, 
Samuel M. Small wood; 1822, T. Carberry; 1824, Roger C. 
Weightman; 1S27, Joseph Gales, jr.; 1830, John P. Van 
Xess; 1834. W. A. Bradley; 1836, Peter Force ; 1840, W. W. 
Seaton; 1850, Walter Lenox; 1852, John W. Maury; 1854, 
John T. Towers; 1856, W. B. Magruder; 1858, J. G. Ber- 
rett ; 1862, Richard Wallach ; 1868, S. J. Bowen ; 1870, M. G. 
Emery. 

Governors of the District of Columbia. — 1S71, Henry D. 
Cooke; 1873, A. R. Shepherd. 

On May 3, 1802, the municipal government was created by 
Congress, to consist of a mayor and council. Congress re- 
served supreme jurisdiction. The affairs of the county, and 
the construction of roads outside the city, were intrusted to 
a board known as the levy court. On Feb. 21, 1871, the ter- 
ritorial form of government was substituted. 

The most important event in the history of the Capital 
since its foundation was the occupation by the British. The 
President (Madison) and the Cabinet, over-confident of the 
safety of the Capital, or the indisposition of the British, who 
controlled the Chesapeake, to attack, had neglected to make 
suitable provisions for defense. As a consequence, about 
3,500 raw militia, hastily concentrated and badlj r handled, 
were suddenly called upon to confront the enemy, 4,000 
strong, at Bladensburg, 5 m. from the Capital, on August 
24, 1814. Commodore Barney, with a few hundred sailors 
and marines, and Beall's Maryland militia, made a stubborn 
resistance on the turnpike, but, unsupported by the rest of 
the troops, who had fled almost without a fight, fell back to 
the Capital, proposing to defend that point. From here he 
was ordered to retire and take position behind Georgetown, 
leaving the city entirely defenseless. The American troops 



HISTORY OP WASHINGTON. 243 

retreated towards Montgomery Court House, having beep 
preceded by the President and Cabinet and other prominent 
officers of the Government. The total force of Americans 
available was 7,000 men, but through mismanagement, the 
incapacity of Gen. Winder, the commander, and the inter- 
ference of the President and Cabinet, especially the Secretary 
of War, not more than half that number reached the field, 
and even then were outnumbered five to one on the points of 
attack. The whole British force which landed on the Pau- 
tuxent numbered 5,123 men, of which 4,500 men took part 
in the fight . The American loss was 2G killed and 51 wounded, 
and the British 150 killed and 300 wounded. 

At 8 p. m. on the day of the battle the enemy bivouacked 
on Capitol Hill. The Capitol, Library of Congress, Presi- 
dent's House, Arsenal, Treasury and War offices, Long 
Bridge, and office of the National Intelligencer newspaper, 
were burned the same night, also some private buildings. 
The Navy Yard and frigate Columbia, on the stocks, and 
Argus, five barges, and two gunboats Were destroyed by 
order of the Secretary of the Navy. The explosion of pow- 
der in a well at the arsenal killed 15 and wounded 30 of the 
British. 

On the evening of August 25 the British evacuated .the 
Capital. To use the words of one of the British officers, the 
retreat u was as cautious and stealthy and precipitate as was 
natural for a retreating army under such circumstances." 
On the retreat many died of fatigue or were taken prisoners 
by the cavalry harassing the rear. Nearly 200 of the dead 
left by the enemy were buried by the citizens. It was esti- 
mated that his aggregate loss was not less than 1,000 men. 

The enemy reached Benedict on the evening of August 29, 
and re-embarked the next day. 

The sight of the Capital in flames had aroused the inhab- 
itants of the surrounding country, who were being rallied by 
the Secretary of State, Mr. Monroe. It was resolved to cut 
off the enemy's retreat to his ships. His haste, however, 
frustrated these patriotic proceedings. 

When the question of the restoration of the public build- 
ings was under discussion, a long and bitter debate ensued, 
evincing not only a strong disposition to abandon the city, 
but a dangerous sectional feeling. For a time the most seri- 
ous consequences' were threatened. Calmer counsels, how- 
ever, prevailed, and an appropriation of $500,000 was made 
for the repair or re-erection of the buildings on their old 
sites. The estimated loss was $1,000,000. 

In 1846 that portion of the District lying on the west bank 
of the Potomac was retroceded to Virginia. In 1850 the sale 



244 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

of slaves was prohibited, and on April 16, 1S62, slavery was 
abolished in the District. 

During the rebellion, 1861-65, the Capital had every ap- 
pearance of a vast fortress. It was the base of operations of 
mighty armies, called out for the defense of the Constitution 
and the Union. On the surrounding hills were military 
camps ; in the city were hospitals and stores ; and the ave- 
nues and streets were the daily scene of moving troops and 
trains. 

The infusion of a new element into the population of the 
Capital was one of the important results of the rebellion of 
1861-'65. It was not, however, till a decade later that a sys- 
tem of improvements on a grand scale were commenced. In 
that time the number of the inhabitants increased nearly 
fifty thousand. Congress, in the meantime, had dispossessed 
itself of the idea that a National Capital was a political conve- 
nience, instead of necessity. The ideas of Washington, Jeffer- 
son, and L'Enfant, after a sleep of more than three quarters 
of a century, arc being realized. The grand avenues, broad 
streets, and beautiful parks are in keeping with the magni- 
ficence of the Capitol and the imposing proportions of the 
structures occupied bj r the various Executive Departments 
of the Government. Elegant residences, fine churches, 
commodious school-houses, and many public and private 
institutions have been erected. It must be admitted that the 
Capital is no longer a reflection upon the taste, culture, and 
liberality of the nation, and the least inviting of American 
cities. At the same rate of improvement, in ten years the 
Capital of the United States will be one of the most beauti- 
ful in the world. These gratifying results are unquestion- 
ably due to the interest and zeal of President Grant, and to 
the energy and courage of Governor Shepherd. 



INDEX. 



Abbreviations: Com., Committee; E., East; F., Fresco ; H., House of 
Representatives; N., North; P., Portrait of, painting; S., Statue; Sen., 
Senate; S., South; W., West. 



Accounts, Com., 113. 

Adams, Samuel, S., 97, 99. 

Agriculture, Department of, 156, 
162. 

District of Columbia, 12. 

— !— Committees on, 109, 113. 

Alexandria, 229. 

Canal, 214. 

Allen, Ethan, S., 97, 99. 

Altitude, mean, Washington, 16. 

Amusements, general, xiv. 

Anacostia river, 15, 49. 

Analostan Island, 215. 

Appropriations — Sen , 94 ; H., 100. 

Aqueduct, 46,217; Distributing Res- 
ervoir, 217 : Receiving, 217 ; Cabin 
John Bridge, 218. 

Georgetown, 214. 

Bridge, 214. 

Architects of the Capitol, 115. 

Area of Washington, 4. 

Arlington House, 215 ; National Cem- 
etery, 215. 

Armory, 196. 

Army, Headquarters of, 136. 

Ascension Church, xiii. 

Ashburton, Lord, P., 128. 

Asylums — Naval Hospital, 203 ; Sol- 
diers' and Sailors' Orphans' 
Home, 203 ; Columbia Hospital 
for Women, and Lying-in, 203 ; 
Washington, 203; Louise Home, 
204; Providence, General, 204; 
Washington City Orphan, 204 ; 
Children's Hospital, 205 ; St. 
John's Hospital, 205 ; St. Ann's 
Infant, 205 ; St. Joseph's Male 
Orphan, 205 ; St. Vincent's Fe- 
male Orphan, 205 ; Epiphany 
Church Home, 205 ; Home for 
the Aged, 206 ; Deaf and Dumb, 
225 ; Insane, 228. 

Attorneys-General, list of, 155. 

Avenues, 24. 

— — Description of, 25. 



Baker, Gen. E. D., S'., 99. 

Baltimore and Potomac Depot, ix. 

Banking and Currency Com., 96. 

Baptism of Pocahontas, P„ 74. 

Barracks, U. S., 172. 

Marine, 176. 

Basement, H., 112. 

Main, 111. 

N. wing, 110. 

Sen., 107. 

— t— S. wing, 102. 

Baths, Sen., no; H., 112. 

Battle Record room, 170. 

Bedford, Gunning, P., 99. 

Benning's Bridge, 54. 

Birds, 37. 

Bladensburg, 225 ; battle-field of, 225 ; 
duelling ground at, 225 ; Calvert 
mansion, 225. 

Battle of, 242. 

Boarding, vii. 

Boone -in conflict with the Indians, 
relievo, 70. 

Boone, D., P., 102. 

Botanical Garden, 41. 

Botany, District of Columbia, 13. 

Boundaries, District of Columbia, 5. 

Washington, 4. 

Bridges, 52 ; Long Bridge, 52 ; Navy 
Yard, 54; Benning's, 54; Balti- 
more and Potomac Railroad, 54; 
Aqueduct, 54 ; Chain, 54 ; Penn- 
sylvania av., (Rock Creek,) 54; 
M st -, 54 ; P St., 54 ; Cabin John, 
218 ; Mountain Spring, 218. 

Bronze door, main, 67, 68, 70. 

Sen., 88. 

Staircases, 90. 

Burns' Davie Cottage, 5, 210. 

Cabin John Bridge, 218. 

Cabot, relievo of, 70. 

Canals — Washington, 50 ; James 
Creek, 50 ; Chesapeake and Ohio, 
214; Alexandria, 214. 

Canopy of the Rotunda, 80, 



(245) 



246 



INDEX. 



Capitol, 56 ; Situation, 56 ; Street 
cars to, 57; Site of, 57; Ap- 
proaches, 57 ; Grounds, 58, 60 ; 
General exterior view of, 59 ; Gen- 
eral description, 62 ; Dome, 63, 71 ; 
the Western Facade, 63 ; Statue 
of Freedom, 64 ; Porticoes, 65 ; 
Main Bronze Door, 67 ; Diagram 
Principal Story, 69 ; Attic, 104 ; 
Basement, 108 ; Rotunda, 70 ; 
Relievos, 70; Frieze, 70; The 
Dome, 71 ; Historical Painting 
Rotunda, 70, 72-79 ; Canopy of 
Rotunda, 80 ; Ascent of the Dome, 
83 ; Battery and electric gas-light- 
ing apparatus, 83; Vestibule, 83 ; 
Panoramic view of Washington, 
83 ; Library of Congress, 81 ; N. 
wing, 83 ; Supreme Court of the 
United States, 81,83, 84-86; N. 
orSen. Extension, 86; Staircases, 
86, 87, 90, 95, 103, 103 ; Senate 
Chamber, 91 ; Com. rooms (see) ; 
Heating and ventilating, 113, 114 ; 
Law Library, no; Crypt, in; 
Undercroft, 114; National Statu- 
ary Hall, 96 ; S. or House Exten- 
sion, 100; Attic, 102; H., 101 ; 
Basement, 107; Architects, 115; 
History, iis. 

Hill, I5 , 57- 

Selection of site of, 18. 

Capitol Spring, 221. 

Carroll, Chas., P., 99. 

Cemeteries, 206; Congressional, 206; 
Oak Hill, 211; Arlington (Mili- 
tary), 216; Rock Creek, 224; 
Military (Soldiers' Home), 224 ; 
Glenwood, 225 ; Prospect Hill, 
225 ; St. Mary's, 225 ; Mt. Olivet, 
227 ; Graceland, 228 ; National 
(Alexandria), 230. 

Census Com., 112. 

Census Office, xiv. 

Ceremonies, xiv. 

Chain Bridge, 54. 

Chasm of the Colorado, P., 105. 

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 214. 

Chief Justices, busts of, 84. 

List of, 85. 

Churches, list of, xiii. 

Washington, 197. 

Circles — Washington, 
39 ; 13th street, 39 

City Hall, 171. 

City Post-Office, xii. 

Civil. Service Com. Sen., 103, 

Claims, U. S. Court of, 155. 

Claims Com., 105, 113. 

Clarke, Wm., P., 102. 

Clerk of the H., office, 112. 



39 ; Thomas, 
; P street, 39. 



Clinton, George, S., 97, 99. 

Climate, District of Columbia, 14. 

Cloak Rooms — Sen., 93 ; H., 102. 

Clock, Historical, 96, 98. 

Closets — Sen., 94, 109, 113 ; H., 102. 

Coinage, Weights and Measures, 112. 

Collamer, J., S., 99. 

College, Deaf, Mute, 225. 

Georgetown, 214. 

Columbian University, 219. 

Columbus, relievo of, S., 66, 70. 

Commissioners of Washington, 236. 

Commerce 50, Com., 105, 106. 

Congress, 118, 

Congressional Library, 81. 

Contingent Expenses Com., 109. 

Convent of the Visitation, 212 ; Acad- 
emy, 2 [2. 

Corcoran Gallery of Art, 189. 

Corridors — Sen., 86, 88, 89, 105, 109, 
no ; Main Building, 99 ; H., 100, 

I06, 112. 

Court House, District, 171. 

Crawford, sculptor, S., 99. 

Crypt, the, in 

Deaf and Dumb Asylum, 225. 

Deaf Mute College, 225. 

Declaration of Independence, 128. 

Signing of, P., 76. 

Defenses of Washington, 233. 

Department of State, 128 ; Treasury, 
131 ; War, 136 ; Navy, 140 ; Inte- 
rior, 142 ; Post-Office, 151 ; Jus- 
tice, 154 ; Agriculture, 156. 

Diagram of the Capitol, 69, 104, 108. 

Discovery of America, S. and P., 66' 

Discovery of the Mississippi River, 

„ P., 73- 

Distances, Tables of, from Washing- 
ton, xix. 

District of Columbia, 5; Geographical 
situation, 5 ; Boundaries, 5, 237 ; 
Political Divisions, 6 ; Govern- 
ment, 6 ; Finances, 9 ; Population, 
9; Statistics, miscellaneous, 10; 
Vital Statistics, 10 ; Industry and 
Wealth, 10 ; Agriculture, 12 ; To- 
pography, 12 ; Geology, 12 ; Bot- 
any, 13; Zoology, 13; Ornithol- 
ogy, 13 ; Ichthology, 14 ; Herpe- 
tology, 14; Climate, 14. 

District of Columbia Com., 106, 107. 

Government, 208 ; Fire Depart- 
ment, 208 ; Metropolitan Police, 
208 ; Jail, 208. 

Document Room — Sen., 103; H.,96, 
112 ; Clerks, 113. 

Dome, Capitol, 63, 70; Ascent of, 83. 

Door, Main, H., 100. 

Downing, Vase, 178 

Drive, the, 29. 



INDEX. 



247 



Duddington Mansion, 210. 

Duelling Ground, 225. 

Easby's Point, 49. 

Education Coin., 112. 

Education, Bureau of, 142. 

Education and Labor Com., no, 112. 

Elections Com., 106. 

Electric gas-light apparatus, 102, 103. 

Elevations, Washington, 16. 

Elevator, 105. 

Emancipation, S., 28, 38. 

Embarkation of the Pilgrims, P., 75. 

Engineer's Office, 40, 114. 

Engraving and Printing, Bureau of, 
132. 

Enrolled Bills Com., 94. 

Environs of Washington — Georgetown, 
211; Analostan Island, 215; Ar- 
lington House and National Cem- 
etery, 21 5; Fort Myer, 216 ; Aque- 
duct and Falls of the Potomac, 
217; Kalorama, 219; Meridian 
Hill, 219 ; Columbian University, 
219; Wayland Seminary, 221 : 
Howard University, 219 ; Sol- 
diers' Home, 222 ; Grave of L'En- 
fant, 223 ; Rock Creek Church 
and Cemetery, 224; Nttional 
Cemetery, 224 ; Glenwood Cem- 
etery, 225 ; Bladensburg, 225 ; Co- 
lumbia Institute for the Deaf and 
Dumb, and Deaf Mute College, 
225 ; Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 227 ; 
Graceland Cemetery, 228 ; Reform 
School, 228 ; Government Hospital 
for the Insane, 228 ; Alexandria, 
229 ; Mount Vernon, 231 ; Defen- 
ses of Washington, 233. 

Epiphany Church Home, 205. 

Etiquette, xiv. 

Executive Buildings, 55. 

Mansion (See Presid'ts House), 

120. 

Offices, 124. 

the, 126. 

Extension of city, 52. 

Falls of the Potomac, 218. 

Farragut Square, S., 34, 36. 

Finance Com., 86. 

Finances, District of Columbia, 9. 

Washington, 4. 

Fire Department, 208. 

Fish Ponds, 29. 

Fitch, John F., 109. 

Flags, captured, 139. 

Folding Room, Sen., 109, no. 

Foote, Fort, 231. 

Foreign Affairs Com., 106. 

Foreign Capitals, 4. 

Foreign Relations Com., 109. 

Formalities, xiv. 



Fountains, 47, 48. 

Franklin School, 200. 

Square, 37. 

S., 86; F., 109. 

Freedom, S., 64.. 

Frescoes — Rotunda, Frieze of the Ro- 
tunda, 70 ; Canopy, 80 ; Sen. Re- 
ception Room, 90 ; Sen. Post- 
Office, 89 ; Presid'ts Room, 94; 
Sen. Basement, 107; Com. Rooms, 
Sen., Military Affairs, 107 ; Naval 
Affairs, 109 ; Indian, 107 ; Foreign 
Relations, 109; Library, 107; 
.Westward Ho, 102 ; Washington 
at Yorktown, 102 ; Agricultural 
Com. Room, 113. 

Fulton, Robert, F., 109. 

Galleries, Sen., 105. 

H., 106. 

Reporters', 105, 106. 

Gardens, Public Botanical, 41 ; Pro- 
pagating, 41. 

Gas, lighting the city, 45. 

General information, vii. 

Genius of America, S., 65. 

Geology, 12. 

Georgetown, 211 ; Oak Hill Cemetery, 
2ii ; High-service Reservoir, 212 ; 
Convent of the Visitation and 
Academy, 212 ; College, 213; 
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 214; 
Aqueduct, 214 ; Wharves, 214. 

Giddings, Joshua, P., 99. 

Giesboro', 231. 

Glenwood Cemetery, 224. 

Golden Gate, P., 102. 

Government Dist. Columbia, 6, 208. 

Seat of established, 235. 

Government Printing Office, 168. 

Governor's list of, 242. 

Grand Canon of the Yellowstone, P., 
105. 

Green, General, S., 38, 97, 98. 

Guard Room, in. 

Halls — Masonic Temple, 198 ; Odd- 
Fellows', 198 ; Lincoln, 199. 

Hamilton, Alexander, S., 99. 

Hancock, John, S.,95. 

Harbor, improvement of, 50. 

Potomac river, 48 ; Channels, 49. 

Heating and Ventilating, Sen., 107, 
113; H., 113, 114. 

Herpetology, 14. 

Historic Relics, 148, 187. 

Historical Paintings, Rotunda, 72, 79. 

Historical Retrospect, 55. 

Home, Soldiers', 222. 

Hospitals (see Asylums), 203. 

Hotels, vii. 

House of Representatives, iox ; 
Speakers of, 119. 



248 



INDEX. 



Ichthyology, 14. 

Illuminating Loft, Capitol, 105. 

Indian Affairs Com., 107, 112. 

Indian Office, 142, 

Warrior, bronze, 102, 

Insane Asylum, Government, 228. 

Interior Department, 142 ; Secretary's 
Office, 142 ; Indian Office, 142 ; 
Bureau of Education, 142; Secre- 
taries, 144 ; The Department, 144 
(see Patent Office). 

Secretaries, list of, 144. 

•Invalid Pensions, 113. 

Jackson, S., 34, 35. 

Jail, 208. 

Jefferson School, 202. 

S., 96, 99, 100. 

Jones' Point, 6, 230. 

Judiciary, The, 85. 

Square, 37. 

Judiciary Com., 106, 109. 

Justice, Department of, 154 ; Attor- 
ney-General's Office, 154 ; Por- 
traits of Attorneys-General, 155 ; 
History, 155. 

Justice and History, S., 89. 

Justices Supreme Court, Busts of, 84. 

Kalorama, 219. 

King, Wm., S., 97, 99. 

La Salle, relievo, 70. 

Lafayette Square, 34. 

P., 98. 

Lake, The, 29. 

Landing of Columbus, P., 72. 

Landing of the Pilgrims, relievo, 70. 

Law Colleges — Columbian, ■ 201 ; 
Georgetown, 201. 

Law Library, no. 

L'Enfant, Plan of Washington, 16; 
origin of plan, 19. 

Grave of, 223. 

Liberty, S., 97. 

Librarians of the United States, 82. 

Libraries — Congressional, 81 ; Sen., 
102 ; H., 106; Law Library, no; 
Library Com., 107, 112 ; Smith- 
sonian, 181 ; Odd Fellows', 199 ; 
Young Men's Christian Associa- 
tion, 199; Georgetown College, 
214. 

Lighting the city, 45. 

Lincoln, Bust of, 99. 

Mosaic, 99. 

Square, 38. 

S., 38, 99- 

Lincoln Hall, 199. 

.Livingston, Robert, S., 97, 99. 

Lobbies, Sen., 91 ; H., 100. 

Lodgings, vii. 

Long Bridge, 52. 

Louise Home, 204. 



Magazines, 177. 

Mails, the, xii. 

Mall, the, 19, 22, 29. 

Manufactures Com., no, 112, 113. 

Marble Room, 93. 

Marine barracks, 176, 

Markets, 209 ; Centre, 209 ; Eastern, 
209 ; Western, 209 ; Northern, 209. 

Masonic Temple, 198. 

Mason's Island, 215. 

Mayors of Washington, 242. 

McPherson Square, S., 29, 35. 

Medical Colleges — Columbian, 201 ; 
Georgetown, 201. 

Meridian Hill, 219. 

Military Affairs Com., Sen., 107, 
in ; H., 100. 

Militia and Mileage Com., 107. 

Mineralogy, 13. 

Mines and Mining Com., 105, 112. 

Model Room, 114. 

Monument of Peace, 27. 

Monument, Washington Nat'l, 192. 

Mount Vernon, 231. 

Place, 37. 

Mountain Spring Bridge, 218. 

Museum, Agricultural, 159 ; Army 
Medical, 167; Ordnance, 170; 
Naval, 174; National, 182; Cor- 
coran Gallery of Art, 189. 

Myer, Fort, 216. 

National Museum, 182, 188. 

Naval Affairs Com., Sen., 109; H., 
102. 

Naval Hospital, 203. 

Observatory, 163. 

Naval Statue, 27. 

Navy Department, 129, 140; Objects 
of Interest, 140; Library, 140; 
Secretary's Office, 140; Secretar- 
ies, 140 ; History, 142. 

Yard, 174. 

Yard Bridge, 53. 

Newspaper offices, 200. 

Oak Hill Cemetery, 211. 

Observatory, Naval, 163. 

Octagon, The, 126. 

Odd Fellows' Hall, 198. 

Ordnance office, 170; Museum, 170. 

Ornithology, 13. 

Pacific Railroads Com., 105, 106. 

Paintings, Historical, Rotunda, 72-79; 
Perry's Victory on L. Erie, 86 ; 
Storming of Chepultepec, 95 ; 
Grand Canon of the Yellowstone, 
105 ; Chasm of the Colorado, 105 ; 
The Presidents, 122-124; Secre- 
taries of War, 138 ; Attorneys- 
General, 155; Secretaries of 
Treasury, 135; Signing Emanci- 
pation Proclamation, 100 ; Settle- 



INDEX. 



249 



merit of California, 102 ; Discov- 
ery of the Hudson, 102. 

Parks (see Reservations and Squares). 

Patent Office, 137, 144, 145 ; Model 
Rooms, 146-150 ; Historic Relics, 
148 ; History, 151. 

Patents Com., no. 

Pavements, 24. 

Peace, Monument of, 27. 

Peace, S., 66. 

Penn, W., conference with Indians, 
relievo, 70. 

Pensions Com., no. 

Perry's Victory on Lake Erie, P., 86. 

Places of Historical Interest, 210. 

Plant Houses, 162. 

Pocahontas saving life of Smith, re- 
lievo, 70. 

Police, Metropolitan, 208; Capitol, 
in. 

Political Divisions D. C, 7. 

Population, District, 9. 

Washington, 4. 

Postmasters-General, 153. 

Post Office, City, xii. 

Capitol, 112; Sen., 89; H., 112. 

Post Officej General, 151 ; Postmas- 
ters-General, 153 ; The Dpart- 
ment, 158. 

Post Offices and Post Roads Com., 
109, 112. 

Potomac, Falls of, 217, 218. 

the drive to, 217. 

— '■ — River, 48. 

President's House, 120 ; Grounds, 
120 ; Conservatories, 122 ; Sta- 
bles, 122; Exterior, 120; Interior, 
122, 124; History, 125; Presi- 
dents, 126; The Executive, 126; 
Portraits, 122-124 ; State China, 
124. 

President's Room, Capitol, 94, 95. 

Printing Com , 105, 112. 

Private Land Claims Com., 105, 113. 

Privileges and Elections Com., 105. 

Progress of Civilization, S., 66. 

Propagating Garden, 41. 

Providence General Hospital, 204. 

Public Buildings and Grounds Com., 
105, 112. 

Public Lands Com., 106, no. 

Railroads, viii, 54. 

Railways and Canals Com., 106. 

Raleigh, relievo, 70. 

Rawlins Square, 37. 

- — S., 39 

Reception Room, Sen., 90.. 

Refectory, Sen , no; H., 112. 

Reform School, 228. 

Reporters' Gallery (press), Sen., 105 ; 
H.. 112. 



Reporters' Rooms (official), Sen., 89. 

Representatives, Hall of, 101 ; Old 
Hall, 96. 

Offices, 102. 

Reservations, 21,22. 

Reservoir — see Aqueduct, 217. 

High Service, 212. 

Resignation of Washington, P., 79. 

Restaurants, viii. 

Retiring Room, Representatives, Cap- 
itol, 102, 103 ; Reporters', 105, 
106 ; Ladies, Sen., 105 ; H., 106. 

Revision of the Laws Com., 107, 112. 

Revolutionary Claims, 105. 

Rock Creek, 11, 15. 

Bridge, 53^ 214. 

Rock Creek Church and Cemetery, 
224. 

Rotunda, 70 ; Statuary, 70 ; Relievos, 
70 ; Historical paintings, 70-79 ; 
Canopy, 80; Allegory, 80; 
Frieze, 70 ; Ascent of the Dome, 

83- 

Rules Com., no, 112. 

School, Reform, 228. 

Franklin, 200, 202; Seaton, 202; 

Wallach, 202 ; Jefferson, 202. 

Colored, 202 ; Sumner, 202. 

History of, 202. 

Scott Square, 36. 

Winfield, S., 23, 36, 223. 

Senate, 120. 

Chamber, 91 ; Offices, 95. 

Presidents of, 119. 

Sergeant-at-Arms, Sen , Room of, 89 ; 
H., 102. 

Settlement of America, S., 66. 

Sewers, 32, 33, 

Sherman, Roger, S., 97, 98. 

Signal Office, 139. 

Signing the Emancipation Proclama- 
tion, 100. 

Smithsonian Inst'n, 17S ; Downing 
Vase, 178; Building 180 ; Objects, 
180; Secretaries, 181; History, 
t8i ; National Museum, 182, iSi. 

Soldiers' Home, 222. 

Speakers, H., 119; Office, 102 ; Gal- 
lery of, 102. 

Squares — Lafayette, 34; McPhersMi, 
35 ; Scott, 36 ; Farragut, 36 ; 
Franklin, 37; Judiciary, 37; 
Rawlins, 37; Mt. Vernon Place, 
37; Green, 38; Lincoln, 38; 
Stanton Place, 38. 

St. Ann's Infant A.->ylum, 205. 

St. Elizabeth's, 229. 

St. John's Hospital, 205. 

St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum, 205. 

St. Vincent's Female Orphan Asy- 
lum, 205. 



250 



INDEX. 



snr 



Stables, President's, 123. 

Staircases, Sen., E., 86, 87; W., 95. 
H., E., 100; \V., 106; Bronze, 90. 

State, Department of, 127; Archives, 
128; Objects of Interest, 128; 
Secretaries, 130; History, 130. 

Secretaries of, 130 ; Photographs, 

130. 

Stationery Room, Sen., 96. 

Statistics, District, 10; Vital, 10; In- 
dustry and Wealth, 10. 

Statuary— See name of subject. 

Statuary Hall, 96, 98. 

Steamers, ix. 

Store Rooms, 103, 106, 112. 

Storming of Ohepultepec, P., 95, 105. 

Street Cars, viii. 

Street Railways, 54. 

Streets, 24, 25, 30 ; renomenclature, 31. 

Sub-basement, Sen , 113; H., 114. 

Sumner School, 201. 

Supreme Court of the United States, 
83, 84; Chamber, 84; Busts of 
Chief Justices, 84 ; Sessions of, 

84 ; the Chamber when occupied 
by the Senate, 85 ; Chief Justices, 

85 ; The Judiciary, 85 ; Robing 
Room, 85; Offices, 86; Confer- 
ence Room, no; Files, no. 

Surrender of Burgoyne, P., 77. 
Surrender of Cornwallis, P., 78. 
Telegraph, 54. 
Official, Sen., 86 ; H., 100. 

Press, Sen., 105; H., 106. 

Territorial Delegates, 112. 
Territories Com., 109, 112. 
Theatres, xiv. 

Thomas, S. and Circle, 
Tiber, 16, 32. 
Time, difference of, xx. 
Topography, District, 12. 

Washington, 15. 

Transportation Com., 105. 

Treasury Department, 131 ; Objects 

of Interest, 131, 132; Cash room, 

131; Vaults, 132; Photographer's 

Office, 132; Coast Survey, 135; 

Portraits of Secretaries, 135 ; 

History, 135. 
Treaty of Peace, F., 109. 
Triangles, 37. 

Trumbull, Jonathan, S., 97, 98. 
Undercroft, The, 114. 
Universities — Georgetown, 213, 214; 

Columbian, 219, 220; Howard, 

219, 221. 
Uniontown, 228. 
Vault, 114. 
Van Ness Mansion, 9, 210. 



33, 39- 



Vault or Undercroft, 114. 

Vehicles for hire, xii. 

Vestibule, Sen., 89, no; Main Build- 
ing, 67,96, in ; H., 100, n2. 

Vice Presidents U. S., list of, 119. 

Vice President's room, 91. 

Views of Washington, 15. 

Wallach School, 201. 

War Claims Com., 113. 

War Department, 129, 136 ; Secre- 
tary's office, j 36 ; Headquarters 
of the Army, 136; Portraits of 
Generals, 136, 138 ; Paintings of 
life on frontiers, 136; Sketches of 
the War, 136; Mexican Sketches, 
138; Library, 138; Flag room, 
139; Signal Office, 139; the De- 
partment, 139. 

Secretaries of, gallery of, 137. 

S., 66. 

Washington, Defenses of, 233. 

Differences of time, xx. 

Distances from, xix. 

Fort, 231. 

Washington City a Virgin Capital, 1 ; 
Geographical location, 2 ; Selec- 
tion of site, 2 ; Distances, xix-, 4 ; 
Area, 4; Government, 4; Finan- 
ces, 4 ; Population, 4; Statistics, 
10; Foreign Capitals, 4 ; Topog- 
raphy, 15; Plan of City, i.6 ; Ex- 
ecution of, 18 ; Origin of plan, 19 ; 
History of, 235. 

Washington, Geo., P., Peale's, 9] ; 
Vanderlyn, 98 ; Stuart, 99, 122. 

Washington, Geo., S., Greenough, 
60, 61 ; Mills, 21, 39 ; Houdon's 
copy of, 99 ; early statue pro- 
posed, 18. 

Tomb of, 231. 

Martha, grave of, 231. 

Washington National Monument, 192. 

Washington, Views of, 3, 7, 17. 

Water supply, 46; Early schemes, 
48; Aqueduct, 217; Experimen- 
tal surveys, 219. 

Wayland Seminary, 221, 222. 

Wavs and Means Com., 100. 

Webster, D., P., 128. 

West, Benj., P., 99. 

Westward Ho, 102. 

Wharves, 50. 

Georgetown, 214. 

White House — see Prest's House, 120 

Williams, Roger, S., 97, 98. 

Winder's Building, 170, 

Winthrop, John, S., 97, 99. 

Young Men's Christian Ass'n, 199. 

Zoology, District, 13. 



